Virtual Gaming Worlds extended its partnership with swimmer Michael Phelps, who will promote upcoming Global Poker challenges, tournaments and promotions, the company said. Phelps previously appeared in the Global Poker Celebrity Challenge alongside Karl-Anthony Towns and Paul George.
The partnership gives Global Poker a promotional role for its upcoming events and tournaments.
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Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier sued the operators behind Stake.us, Chumba Casino, LuckyLand and Global Poker on Wednesday. He alleges their sweepstakes platforms conduct illegal gambling without licences.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed legislation banning online sweepstakes casino platforms in the state. The law combines Senate Bill 2136 and House Bill 1885 and expands enforcement powers under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act. Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti had issued cease-and-desist letters to operators in late 2025, and some left the state before enactment.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed legislation prohibiting sweepstakes casino platforms in the state, according to the report. The ban covers slot simulations, video poker, table games, bingo and unlicensed sports wagering, while exempting legal sports betting, fantasy sports, the state lottery, nonprofit gaming and free-to-play games.
The Illinois Gaming Board issued cease-and-desist letters to more than 60 online casino and sweepstakes platforms operating in Illinois, the board said. In coordination with the Illinois Attorney General’s office, it ordered them to block Illinois residents or stop offering prizes to users in the state. Non-compliance may lead to civil or criminal penalties under Illinois law.
The Illinois Gaming Board issued 65 cease-and-desist orders to online casino and sweepstakes operators on 5 February, after working with the Attorney General’s Office. The orders require recipients to block Illinois residents and stop offering prizes in the state; the Board says the platforms provided unlicensed internet gambling and warns of possible civil or criminal penalties.