Changes are being made to the way players in the UK play on PokerStars. Here you’ll find an FAQ section answering any questions you might have.
The iconic PokerStars brand is joining the Betfair platform in an exciting move that will not only boost player pools, but prize pools too.
From August 13, 2026, Betfair customers will be able to access PokerStars through a new co-branded ‘PokerStars on Betfair’ offer, reflecting a new global strategy at Flutter (the company that owns PokerStars).
Paddy Power and Sky Poker will also host the PokerStars product later this year.
It’s all in an effort to improve the player experience. PokerStars is moving to a more liquidity-focused operating model that brings tailored, regional experiences to players through the ‘PokerStars Network’ (PSN).
The approach has already seen results, with successful migrations completed with FanDuel in the US, and Flutter’s Sisal and SNAI brands in Italy.
Mike Woodbridge, Chief Commercial Officer at PokerStars, said: “PokerStars is the most iconic brand in global poker – these changes ensure that it remains a core, strategic brand within Flutter’s portfolio.
“In recent years the market environment has got harder for brands like PokerStars. A patchwork of regulation from one market to the next has fragmented the global game and led us to make difficult decisions to exit certain markets and not enter others.
“Players have felt it through thinner fields and smaller tournament prizes on our site,” he continued. “We want to do something about that, so we’re moving to a different model with the aim of improving liquidity and player pools and bringing people back to the poker table.”
Kim Daly, Managing Director for Betfair, said: “I’m thrilled to bring two iconic brands under one roof. By integrating PokerStars onto the Betfair platform, we’re uniting two category-transformers that share a passion for innovation and player empowerment.”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why is PokerStars now offered on Betfair for UK players?
Poker is at its best when the tables are full. We’re bringing players together into larger, shared pools across Flutter’s brands into the PokerStars Network, which should create bigger fields, larger prize pools and more availability of the games you want to play.
Will the changes mean new player software?
The PokerStars poker experience you know continues. If the way you access PokerStars is going to change, we’ll contact you directly with clear, step-by-step guidance ahead of time to make any transition as smooth as possible.
Are my funds safe?
Yes. Your funds are safe and remain accessible. There is always the possibility of short scheduled maintenance work, which we’ll always alert you to in advance, but player funds remain safe and segregated.
Why is PokerStars making these changes?
We’re aiming to reconnect players across Flutter’s brands to rebuild bigger, healthier games. It’s part of a long-term commitment to invest in poker through the PokerStars Network.
What do I need to do now?
PokerStars players do not need to take any action right now. You will be contacted in due course with any specific actions or requirements and will be supported through any changes.
Will the changes bring more and new players to the tables?
By pooling players across more brands, we’re setting the conditions to create fuller tables and bigger fields as we build upon the network effect that makes online poker great.
Why is this exciting for players?
The PokerStars Network is setting itself up to create bigger fields, deeper prize pools, and bring even more players and prestige to the events you love, such as the Sunday Million and WCOOP. The upside will continue to build over time as the network grows.
How do I contact the support team?
You can reach our support team any time through the PokerStars Help Centre.
What is the PokerStars Network?
The PokerStars Network (PSN) connects poker players across Flutter’s brands into shared, connected pools, so more players play together, in bigger fields, more of the time. It’s how we’re investing in the long-term health of the game.
Which brands are part of the PokerStars Network?
PokerStars and (where regulation allows) other Flutter brands are or will be part of the PokerStars Network. It’s already live in Italy and North America, with the UK joining as PokerStars poker moves onto Betfair, followed over time by Paddy Power and Sky.
What is PokerStars on Betfair?
Betfair account holders will be able to play on PokerStars, which will host PokerStars games through the PokerStars Network.
Why is PokerStars moving to Betfair?
Online poker has become fragmented as a result of rising taxes and increasingly complex licenses across different markets, which have resulted in splitting players into smaller pools. We’re aiming to reconnect players across Flutter’s brands to rebuild bigger, healthier games. It’s part of a long-term commitment to invest in poker through the PokerStars Network.
What is happening to PokerStars in the UK?
PokerStars is evolving. PokerStars UK players will access PokerStars poker through Betfair as part of the PokerStars Network later this year. We will contact players directly to inform them how PokerStars poker can be accessed through Betfair in the future.
Can I join PokerStars on Betfair now?
Existing PokerStars UK players will not be able to open new Betfair accounts
Can I access the PokerStars Network via multiple Flutter brand accounts?
In some markets, due to network rules, a player may hold an account with more than one brand. However, this will always reflect local regulation and how the PokerStars Network operates there. A player can only play on one account at a time. Our fair-play and security standards apply across the network, and our commitment to player safety and a fair game remains unwavering.
Will PokerStars still offer all the key series and tournaments going forward?
Tournaments like the Sunday Million and Sunday Storm, as well as major series like WCOOP and SCOOP, have been running for years. We intend to keep running them for many more years.
What do I need to do to access and start playing?
Right now, nothing; you can keep playing as normal. When any change is coming for you, we’ll be in touch directly with clear guidance ahead of time.
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