Amaya Gaming, owned by Pokerstars, has now been ordered by a Kentucky judge to pay $870 million (€794,1 million) in damages. The reason for this is PokerStars' illegal operations in the US state between 2006 and 2011.

Originally only $290 million was awarded by the judge last month but following a request from the state the amount has now been tripled.
The state began its lawsuit against PokerStars in 2010, alleging that PokerStars had provided illegal gambling services to 2006 players since 34.000.

According to PokerStars, it generated approximately $18 million in gross revenue in Kentucky over a five-year period.

Based on an 1833 statute, the state argues that it is legal to seek damages on behalf of poker players who have lost money.

Of course, Amaya has indicated that it will challenge this decision and strenuously denies any liability. However, the former owners of the Rational Group should also be held responsible for this.


Amaya has also made a number of changes to its online poker platform, including the introduction of the new VIP Steps program, which is scheduled to take effect in January.

As a result, more than 2000 players decided to boycott PokerStars. However, PokerStars has confirmed that the plans will continue to be implemented.

However, well-known US player Haxton, also known as Ike in the poker industry, has confirmed his position and resigned in protest against the changes to the Supernova and Supernova Elite programs from PokersStars, which he once held in high regard.

The November announcement will focus on the benefits that players who achieved Supernova and Supernova Elite status in 2015 and expected in 2016 will likely not receive. He cannot accept this and feels it is dishonest and unfair, commented Haxton, justifying his decision to go his separate ways.

Source: igamingbusiness