In a surprise move by the Argentinean government earlier this week, a motion was passed that would allow online gaming operators to legally function within the South American country’s jurisdiction. The 180 degree turn comes after the government took over the broadcast rights for AFA (Asociacion del Futbol Argentino) the country’s soccer federation, for a sum of $154 million. The bailout had to come because many of the clubs were facing bankruptcy and financial ruin. Soccer is the national pastime and is considered as much part of Argentinean custom as Tango. Legalizing online gambling could possibly bring help bring that necessary income the clubs so desperately need to pay taxes and players.

Pokerstars.net has already begun its assault to strategically place themselves in hopes that the online poker market will explode as soon as the law is approved. They are currently sponsoring one of the oldest and most popular clubs in the country, River Plate.

Presidential Cabinet Chief Anibal Fernandez said Wednesday: “We’re working so that this will become law within two or three months,” Fernandez said, adding that it could take notably longer and possibly up to two years.

Source: Pokerati.com