BetStars goes live in Italy
Beta version of sportsbook is currently desktop-only and limited to six sports
Amaya has launched a beta version of its BetStars sportsbook in Italy with a “special focus on football”, the company announced today.
The trial version of BetStars.IT currently offers six sports and is available only on desktop. Amaya said it plans to grow the range of sports available but did not put a specific timeline on the expansion.
A PokerStars spokeperson told EGR the limited proudct was designed to “demonstrate that the back end is working smoothly and give bettors the best experience possible”.
“Then we’ll look towards the mobile site in the coming months,” he added.
Amaya will initially be focusing on cross selling poker customers through promotions like the Welcome BetStars Freeroll, a free poker tournament with a ?5,000 prize pool, open to players who make any bet during the week from 25 to 30 May .
BetStars.IT will also let customers use a single wallet between sports betting, casino and poker.
“There’s huge crossover between poker consumers and sports betting fans and BetStars provides a safe, secure, convenient and trusted environment to place sports bets,” said Eric Hollreiser, vice president of corporate communications at Amaya.
“Italian sports fans find betting enhances their love of the game as they put their wits, strategy and judgment to the test.”
Amaya is hoping to launch BetStars in France before Euro 2016, although it says that is now dependent on the regulator.
The Canada-listed operator is continuing to pour investment into its sportsbook and casino verticals as it seeks to appeal to more recreational punters and become a genuine multi-brand, cross-vertical operator.