The parent company of the PokerStars gambling website, thwarted thus far in its efforts to buy one Atlantic City casino, on Wednesday announced a deal in which it will partner with another one to offer Internet gambling in the state once it becomes legal later this year. The Rational Group is joining with Resorts Casino Hotel as its online gambling partner, pending approval from state casino regulators.
But Wednesday’s announcement raised another big question: whether PokerStars plans to continue its court fight to try to buy The Atlantic Club Casino Hotel, in which it thus far has been rebuffed. An appeals court ruled Monday The Atlantic Club can seek a new buyer even as the court fight continues.
The Rational Group CEO Mark Scheinberg said the company is excited about investing in New Jersey. “Resorts is a fantastic partner for us and we are looking forward to launch PokerStars in the U.S. in association with the other quality brands Resorts has brought to Atlantic City,” he said in a statement.
But his statement made no mention of its plans regarding The Atlantic Club, and a spokesman did not immediately return messages seeking comment Wednesday. Rational spent $11 million of the purchase price it negotiated with The Atlantic Club on payments to keep the casino afloat during the slow winter months.
