World Series of Poker room to enter Italy

LAS VEGAS, Nevada -- (PRESS RELEASE) -- Caesars Interactive Entertainment, Inc., has announced a long-term agreement with Microgame S.p.A. for the Italian poker market utilizing its World Series of Poker brand.

Under terms of the agreement, Microgame and CIE will work together exclusively to market the WSOP brand in Italy, both with online and offline poker tournaments and promotions.

In Italy, Microgame operates the largest poker network in the newly-regulated online market.

"This agreement is a logical step in our European and global expansion strategy to partner with leading local companies as we look to expand the WSOP brand," said Caesars Interactive Entertainment CEO Mitch Garber. "Microgame is a clear leader in Italy and we look forward to working hard together to grow the poker market."

People's Poker, a network of over 120 online poker sites, will be co-branded utilizing the WSOP brand and People's Poker brand, and serve as the online hub for poker playing in the Italian market. Using Microgame's vast network both online and at retail, the WSOP brand will be utilized to attract new players to poker via these avenues.

"We are honored to have been selected as the exclusive Italian partner for the WSOP," said Microgame CEO Fabrizio D'Aloia. "The People's Poker Network, powered by Microgame, confirms its position of leadership in the Italian Poker Market and we are truly excited to offer our customers something unique. The WSOP has over 40 years of history and heritage and an alliance with Microgame online marks an exciting new chapter for both of us."

Microgame and the WSOP will create land-based tournaments for the Italian players using the WSOP name and Microgame receives exclusive rights to do so throughout the length of the agreement.

As part of this agreement, Microgame becomes the exclusive satellite provider in Italy of WSOP land-based events. Microgame will also act as the exclusive pre-registration booking office for Italian players for the WSOP Main Event held in Las Vegas.