Could FOX Sports take over Isle of Man headquartered Pokerstars (The Stars Group)?

Isle of Man News: U.S. sports network giant FOX Sports is getting into the sports betting game. Signing a $236 million deal to acquire 4.99% of the Stars Group, FOX Sports has the right acquire up to a 50% equity stake in The Stars Group’s U.S. business, subject to certain conditions and applicable gaming regulatory approvals, and prior to the tenth anniversary of the commercial agreement as Marketwatch reports. So no takeover for Isle of Man Pokerstars yet, but an exciting strategic alliance of sports television and betting with the launch of FOX Bets.

With the U.S. Supreme Court paving the way for all 50 states to allow legal sports betting, the new alliance is a major step for the Isle of Man Digital Media and eGaming industry. With the recent takeover of Sky Sports, The Stars Group already has a stronghold in the U.K. The new media partnership with a broadcaster and major sports television network expands the reach now to the U.S. Digital sports wagering as well as eSports represent growing market opportunities to connect directly with consumers and expand the reach of traditional sports.

The Stars Group owns or licenses gambling brands, including PokerStars, PokerStars Casino, BetStars, Full Tilt, BetEasy, Sky Bet, Sky Vegas, Sky Casino, Sky Bingo, Sky Poker and Oddschecker.

FOX Sports and The Stars Group have entered a long-term commercial agreement through which FOX Sports will provide The Stars Group with an exclusive license to use certain FOX Sports trademarks. The partners expect to launch two products in the Fall of 2019 under the FOX Bet umbrella, a nationwide free-to-play game and a betting platform on the outcome of a wide range of sporting events.