Bwin.Party has partnered with the Auburn Indian Community (UAIC) in a plan to offer online poker service to California residents. Should the state legalize internet gaming within its borders, the two groups are now positioned to leap directly into the fray.
Norbert Teufelberger and Jim Ryan, the men behind the European gaming giant, worked closely with UAIC Tribal Chairman David Keyser throughout the deal-making process. Under their guidance, the parties were able to hammer out a ten year agreement, with the clock set to start ticking at the launch of their proposed poker service.
“California is the largest state in the U.S. in terms of population,” commented Bwin.Party’s co-CEOS, “and is known to have a significant number of poker players who like to play poker online. Combining our own significant assets and resources with those of UAIC will create a strong partnership that is well-placed to seize the opportunities that will arise if appropriate online poker legislation is enacted in the Golden State.”
The process of which Teufelberger and Ryan speak is already well underway. California officials have been working toward a legalization of online poker for several months, with the latest effort gaining steam this past February. At that time, state senators Darrell Steinberg and Roderick Wright introduced a piece of legislation which would allow state residents to participate in regulated online poker games. The UAIC, a federally recognized tribe, has been paying close attention to the proceedings.
“We see the legalization of Internet poker and other Internet gaming as being inevitable,” added Keyser. “Having met with representatives from a number of different online gaming companies, Bwin.Party was our first choice as partner. With its unrivaled expertise in online poker, proven technology and player loyalty we are confident of being able to maximize the revenue opportunity from a regulated online poker market in California and to continue to enhance the long-term prosperity of our community.”
The UAIC is no stranger to the gaming business. Their Thunder Valley Casino Resort would likely provide the basis for the new poker service, with Bwin.Party providing the software.