57TH ANNUAL WORLD SERIES OF POKER

News

Jeffrey Pollack Named Commissioner of World Series of Poker

Jan 12 2006 12:00 AM EST

LAS VEGAS - Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: HET) today announced that Jeffrey Pollack, vice president of sports and entertainment marketing for subsidiary Harrah's Operating Company, Inc., is taking on the added role of commissioner of the World Series of Poker, subject to the receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals.

"The World Series of Poker is a unique event in the gaming and sports industries and, as such, requires special oversight and management," said Ginny Shanks, Harrah's senior vice president of brand management. "Designating Jeffrey as commissioner will further empower him to develop a strong sense of community among our players, tournament organizers, event staff, media partners, sponsors, licensees, and corporate management team."

Pollack is the first commissioner in the tournament's 36-year history.

The World Series of Poker, the world's richest and most prestigious poker event, will take place next summer at the Rio® All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. During the 2005 World Series of Poker events, more than $52 million in prize money was awarded in the Main Event alone, and every player who advanced to the final table won at least $1 million. The World Series of Poker is televised exclusively on ESPN.

Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. is the world's largest provider of branded casino entertainment through operating subsidiaries. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada, 68 years ago, Harrah's has grown through development of new properties, expansions and acquisitions. Harrah's Entertainment is focused on building loyalty and value with its customers through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership.

Contacts:

Dan Foley - Investors
Harrah's Entertainment, Inc.
(702) 407-6370

Alberto Lopez - Media (General)
Harrah's Entertainment, Inc.
(702) 407-6344

Dave Curley - Media (WSOP)
TBC Public Relations
(410) 986-1305

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