From the 13th February, PokerStars.fr, will close the door in the face of non-French residents, so they can ‘adapt to a constantly changing environment.’

If you live in a European country that allows you to compete on PokerStars.fr, and were considering opening an account for your lover on Valentine’s Day, then you may want to turn your attention to chocolate, sexy undies, or something containing tiny batteries.

PokerStars has informed players, via email, that from February 13, only residents of France or any of their overseas departments and territories, will be permitted to play on PokerStars.fr.

The vicissitudes of history have not been kind to French poker players. It’s another kick in the genitals for a country where it’s harder to find a game of poker than a teenager who knows what a fountain pen is.