PokerStars leaving Czech Republic

PokerStars has announced it will be leaving the Czech Republic market prior to new online poker regulations coming into effect in the country at the beginning of July.

According to PokerStars representatives they will surrender their license by June 20 and fully shutdown its presence in the Czech Republic before new regulations take effect on July 1.

Why is Pokerstars leaving Czech Republic?

Changes to online poker regulations were announced in the Czech Republic in January that were supposed to improve online gambling in the country. Under the new regulations a larger burden will be placed on sites to monitor and restrict problem gamblers, it changes what is considered illegal gambling, it makes government investigations of online gaming sites easier, and it increases the tax rate on gross gaming revenue from 23 percent to 30 percent.

When announcing its departure from the Czech Republic market PokerStars did not identify what new regulations brought about this decision. New deposits on the PokerStars platform in Czech Republic became restricted on June 6, and all players were alerted that balances must be withdrawn prior to the license surrender date.

In a statement PokerStars reps said, “PokerStars has no current plans to re-enter the Czech Republic market. For players with inquiries regarding bonuses, tournament entries, or live events, the company assures refunds and accommodations where applicable.”

Following the withdrawal of PokerStars two regulated online poker sites will remain available in Czech Republic. They include Fortuna Poker, and partypoker.