Harrah's, IMG Extend WSOP Contract

Casino News - September 26th, 2009 - Written by Glen

In 2005, Harrah's bought out the then owner of the rights to host the World Series of Poker, and a recent accord with IMG Sports & Entertainment has brought out an agreement that would expand the World Series of Poker even further. The plan is to extend the World Series of Poker into a more broad set of geographic locations, while still allowing players, regardless of nationality or ethnicity, to join in on the game.

"We are looking to emphasize the 'World' in World Series of Poker as our vision of the brand extends beyond the annual events in Las Vegas and London," said Mitch Garber, Chief Executive Officer of Harrah's Interactive Entertainment, in a press release. "By tapping the global reach and expertise of IMG, we are confident that together we can take the brand to new levels on the international stage through new international bracelet events and other WSOP licensed poker events."

The World Series of Poker has seen an explosion in participants in the new millennium, and with the rising popularity of online poker rooms and their respective satellites, the World Series of Poker continues to grow. With IMG's assistance, Harrah's has managed to boost the popularity, sponsorship, and reach of the WSOP. Through the recent agreement between IMG and HIE, IMG will help to expand the Series through such methods as brand expansion, sponsorship, events and management, additional licensing, and the televised versions of the tournament.

The WSOP has remained relatively linear with the key components of the grouping. ESPN has also extended their contract with the World Series, bringing even more eyes to the poker tables. After forty years running, the World Series of Poker shows no sign of slowing down.

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