Live Poker Scene in Chaos: Events Cancelled, Future Uncertain

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the cancellation or postponement of many live poker festivals. The World Poker Tour and World Series of Poker are among the high-profile events affected. Online operators have stepped in to provide alternatives, but there is still a separation between the US market and the rest of the world.

New Normal Casinos and card rooms worldwide have reopened with low customer numbers due to international tourism restrictions. Some Las Vegas casinos remain closed, catering primarily to local residents. Card rooms must adhere to local COVID-19 regulations, which has led to complaints from players about wearing masks and playing short-handed.

A nonprofit group claims that Las Vegas casinos are driving up COVID-19 cases in Nevada. The Triton Super High Roller event in London was postponed due to local casino restrictions. The World Poker Tour moved some events online, but many final tables are still waiting for a suitable venue. Dusk Till Dawn, Nottingham, has decided to wait for more clarity on the situation before reopening. Owner Rob Yong of Dusk Till Dawn did a reconnaissance at other venues in the UK but didn’t like the new look of plexiglass screens and enforced masks.