Sunbet ups the ante aiming to introduce online multiplayer poker as revenue soars
After a record-breaking year, Sun International’s online gaming arm sets its sights on multiplayer poker to drive its next wave of digital expansion.
Johannesburg, South Africa – In a bold move to expand its already thriving digital footprint, Sun International has announced plans to roll out multiplayer online poker on its fast-growing gaming platform, Sunbet.
The announcement comes hot on the heels of a stellar 2024 performance, with Sunbet emerging as one of the standout stars in the group’s financial results. The platform recorded an explosive 60.6 per cent surge in income, climbing to R1.2 billion ($63.6m) and delivering a record adjusted EBITDA of R363 million ($19.2m), a clear sign that Sun International’s online gamble is paying off.
A serious player in digital betting
Once known primarily for its glitzy resorts and iconic casinos, the hospitality giant has steadily evolved into a serious player in the digital betting arena. Sunbet, launched in 2013, began as a strategic foray into online sports betting. Fast-forward to today, and it’s become one of the fastest growing online gaming brands in southern Africa.
“We believe that there are good synergy opportunities between this form of gaming, our existing business and the possibility of online gaming in the future,” Sun International’s Michael Farr was quoted as telling the Daily Investor.
“Sunbet provides the group with the ideal platform to allow us exposure to the online environment and accelerate our entry into the online gaming market.”
Originally built on the back of sports betting including rugby, cricket, tennis and US sports, Sunbet has diversified its portfolio to offer slots, crash games like Aviator and live dealer games, all backed by a slick new website design and a brand refresh that draws on the Sun City legacy.
The latest evolution? Online poker. While details remain under wraps, the company confirmed the project is in the pipeline.
