There are new rules and procedures in place, and the outside temperature is about 30 degrees cooler than usual, but the World Series of Poker has officially returned to Las Vegas after a break of more than 800 days.
It was July 2019 when the German Hossein Ensan promised the 50th The festival 2020 promised to be even bigger, but the COVID-19 pandemic stopped live poker around the world, forcing the WSOP on-line.
In fact, it was only the last tablists of the main event who were allowed to play cards at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino Hebert last year.
Usually held in June and July, the series was postponed to autumn in 2021. A total of 88 events are planned between September 30th and November 23rd, at which bracelets will be awarded.
the WSOP The main event will have four take-off flights to choose from between November 4th and 7th. The final table is currently scheduled for Tuesday, November 16 and Wednesday, November 17.
“We’ve spent the last 26 months returning from the WSOP live and in person to the Rio, and it feels incredible to say today is that day, ”said Ty Stewart, Senior Vice President of the World Series of Poker.
“There is nothing like it WSOP With every day that makes history – from the unforgettable victories to the overwhelming surprises – live it is an experience like no other. We are incredibly grateful to those who traveled far and wide to be with us again in Las Vegas, as well as our team members and partners, considering that it would take a huge village to host this event. “
The traditional $ 500 Casino Employees Event kicked off the series on Thursday, and while the usual rows of players were down the Rio corridor, the congestion this time around was more due to the new vaccine mandate policy than due to delays in registration.
Less than five weeks after the series began, the tournament organizers surprised many by announcing the mandate for anyone who wants to play. In order to participate in bracelet events, deep stack tournaments, satellites or cash games, proof of vaccination with a mobile health passport app is required. The policy applies to everyone involved in the event, including staff, media, vendors and viewers.
“We didn’t make this decision easy for us – it was made without intent other than to provide players with eligibility and run a unique televised gaming event,” said Stewart. “The nature of poker is to be in close proximity to your opponents for an extended period of time and to have a seat in the WSOP is an obligation both for our company and for the participants. We want players to look forward to their return to the WSOP, while it offers the greatest possible protection and limits the complications during the tournament this fall. “
Compliance with Governor Steve Sisolak’s 050 Emergency Policy for Vaccinated Events allows players to remove their masks while seated at the tables.
We can only guess how the mandate will affect attendance. The numbers would already be lower than usual due to the fact that the series takes place in the fall. Additionally, many international players will still struggle to get to Las Vegas due to various travel restrictions.
According to CDC, approximately 67% of eligible adult Americans are fully vaccinated, and 77% have received at least one dose.
To stay up to date with the latest WSOP, check out the Card Player series landing page for event results, summaries and interviews with the winners.
