PokerStars and FanDuel Partner To Build Unified iGaming Platform

Online poker across North America is heading toward a major shift. PokerStars and FanDuel are partnering to create a single platform for poker, casino gaming and sports betting.

The arrangement positions FanDuel as the exclusive home of PokerStars, blending the PokerStars’ experience with FanDuel’s massive player base.

Players will eventually access the poker, sportsbook, and casino segments through a single account supported by a unified wallet. The integrated platform is scheduled to launch later in 2026.

Shared liquidity strategy aims to connect players across states

The new structure will initially serve regulated markets currently hosting PokerStars operations, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Michigan in the United States, plus Ontario in Canada.

The integration arrives shortly after Pennsylvania joined the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement. This agreement allows licensed operators to connect player pools across participating states to increase liquidity in online poker games.

PokerStars previously indicated caution regarding immediate integration of Pennsylvania players into its existing multi state network. At the time the company said it was “committed to the long-term growth of the game in the US.”

The new FanDuel platform will bring players from multiple jurisdictions together under one system, providing a secure account to manage funds across three verticals. By combining the PokerStars brand with FanDuel’s sportsbook and casino communities in North America, the players can enjoy larger prize pools for tournaments and cash games. 

Early promotions introduced ahead of the new platform launch

A promotional campaign has already begun to celebrate the platform launch. The “Now and Later” promotion is accessible to players who create a FanDuel Casino account in the first phase.

For signing up, they can claim a welcome package of 500 bonus spins and up to $1,000 in casino bonuses. Participants who activate the current promotion will receive a dedicated Poker Welcome Offer once the poker platform officially launches.

PokerStars outlines key transition dates

Several operational changes are scheduled during the transition period. On March 13, PokerStars will retire its PokerStars Rewards programme.

Any unopened reward chests and progress totals will be converted into cash payments for players. Another change arrives on April 1 when PokerStars Casino Progressive Jackpots will be removed. Contributions accumulated within those jackpots will be redistributed to eligible players.

PokerStars accounts remain active throughout the transition period. Players can continue to log in, withdraw funds and play normally until the integrated platform launches in 2026.