Pucks and Poker: PokerStars Strikes New Deal as Official Sponsor of Detroit Red Wings
Gordie Howe, Steve Yzerman, Nicklas Lidstrom, Sergei Federov … and now PokerStars? The online poker site recently unveiled a new partnership with the National Hockey League’s Detroit Red Wings.
PokerStars now becomes a new official sponsor of the team as part of a multi-year agreement. It’s become common for online gaming companies to partner with teams and leagues in recent years.
However, the deal is one of the rare agreements involving one of the legalized US online poker operators and a sports brand.
“We are extremely proud and excited to build a long-term relationship with such an iconic NHL team as the Red Wings,” PokerStars US managing director Severin Rasset said in a news release. “Through this partnership, we look forward to delivering epic experiences for our PokerStars community, expanding on what we can offer our Michigan based players, as well as those across the rest of the US.”
PokerStars teams up in Hockeytown
Stars and the Red Wings have begun a partnership beyond typical advertising and in-arena signage that also benefits players. The deal features rewards available for Michigan-based online poker players such as:
- signed memorabilia
- merchandise
- game tickets
- fan opportunities and experiences
“This is a partnership that our fans, especially poker players, will really enjoy,“ said Chris McGowan, president & CEO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, which owns the team. “It’s great to see PokerStars’ branding on the ice-level at Little Caesars Arena, and we’re very appreciative of their support.”
Winning with the Red Wings in Michigan
Red Wings fans can expect to see the iconic “winged wheel” included as part of PokerStars’ regular marketing. The online poker brand will also be prominently featured during home games at Little Caesars Arena.
Emphasizing responsible gambling is also a key component of the partnership. Michigan remains a key market for PokerStars in the US and the platform is also available in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
In announcing the deal, PokerStars noted: “Following the rapid growth of online poker in the US, and a highly engaged PokerStars community in Michigan, this partnership will offer Red Wings fans and poker players a powerful combination of entertainment through leading poker experiences.”