Victoria Coren-Mitchell Splits from PokerStars

UK and PokerStars poker pro, Victoria Coren-Mitchell, announced that she has split with PokerStars amicably after the company announced the upcoming launch of casino games. After 7 years, Coren opted to sever ties with the company due to personal principle and her opinion on the distinction between poker and casino games. Regarding poker she said, "...we all take each other on with the same basic chance", whilst "...casino games at unfavorable odds can be (especially online) dangerous for the vulnerable or desperate.” She also made a point to insist that her choice was not meant to criticize PokerStars, “They are providing a new service that people want, and I know they intend to abide by some key principles of responsible gaming.” PokerStars' communications chief, Eric Hollreiser, said, "We respect Victoria Coren's decision to leave Team PokerStars Pro following our recent announcement to add casino games. We're sad to see Vicky go and remain thankful for her support of the game and the company and wish her success in poker and in life." Coren added, “Maybe in the future I will be able to work with PokerStars again on something which is pure poker. I don't know, but certainly there are no hard feelings between me and that company which has done so much for the beautiful game over the last decade. “They have been gracious and understanding about my decision. Many of the people there are good friends of mine and I'll miss working with them. The EPT and UKIPT are great tours which I will continue to play, if a little less often. I have had seven wonderful years as a proud member of Team Pro and I wish it wasn't over. This is a very sad and regretful day for me. I still believe that PokerStars is, at time of writing, the best place to play online poker.”