PokerStars lands APPT sponsorship

ne operator PokerStars is to sponsor the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) 2015 Nanjing Millions tournament in China, as part of its plans to promote its services to the Asian market.

The event has a main event guaranteed prize pool of CN¥1m ($159,000) and takes place between 14 and 19 April at the Jiangsu Wutaishan Sports Centre, an Olympic venue in Nanjing, Jiansu Province.

APPT president Danny McDonagh said: “The growth of poker in China has been tremendous and we are committed to support this sport throughout the region.

"Nanjing is a key location that allows players from all over the country to participate. The previous two Beijing events last year were very successful and we are proud to be a part of this government-supported event."

PokerStars has taken another measure in attempting to increase its footprint in Asia, after announcing its sponsorship of Japanese model Yuiko Matsukawa.

Matsukawa, who is the third Japanese national to be sponsored by PokerStars, played at the Macau Poker Cup earlier this month.

Meanwhile, Red Bull has been announced as the official energy drink provider of PokerStars LIVE Macau events, which will cover three events that will be held later this year.