In 2022, we saw PartyPoker leave Croatia and other markets, and now, on December 11, 2024, PokerStars will leave too. Unibet is another operator that left many markets this year, including Croatia.
Yesterday before midnight, PokerStars customers from Croatia received an email notifying them that all PokerStars products would be unavailable to them in seven days. This announcement was unexpected by the whole Croatian community as PokerStars didn’t state any reason for leaving, and a lot of players are unsure where to continue playing.
Players can withdraw the funds at any time; all tournaments will be refunded, non-promotional rewards will be converted into cash and added to the balance, and sports bets that haven’t started will be canceled.
On July 1, 2024, PokerStars closed its operations in the Czech Republic because of regulatory changes, and we can see the trend of poker operators closing their doors to European customers but expanding their operations in the US.
The main reasons for countries to implement regulations are the protection of its citizens from illegal and underaged gaming and taxation of the growing poker industry.
When the government legalizes the industry, it gains control and can easily monitor its operations, preventing illegal activities and money laundering. Countries must also comply with international agreements set by the European Union or international gaming associations. If the government controls the industry, it can control its economic benefits, create jobs, attract investments, and invent.
Where Can Croatians Still Play?
After PokerStars closes its doors to Croatian players, they will still have plenty of options for playing online poker in Croatia. PokerPro has been a leading deal provider for the last 17 years in this region, and we offer the best rewards and the fastest customer service to our clients. Some of the most popular options we can offer are GGPoker, Natural8, BetKings, WPT Global, KKPoker, and Champion Poker.