WSOP 2021: New COVID-19 Rules Spark Outrage Among Poker Players

The World Series of Poker (WSOP) 2021 is scheduled to take place from September 30th to November 23rd at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. However, the recently released COVID-19 rules have sparked controversy and concern among players.

Controversial COVID-19 Rules

Rule 115 of the WSOP 2021 states that the Rio casino reserves the right to remove any participant who tests positive for COVID-19, comes into close proximity with someone who has, or refuses to undergo health screenings. Players removed under this rule will not receive any compensation for their buy-ins, leading to significant financial risks for participants.

Many players have expressed their concerns and ridicule on social media. Noah Watry was among the first to criticize the new rules. Vanessa Kade and Kevin Mathers also offered their advice, pointing out that the WSOP will be unworkable and unattractive with such a rule. The rules do not specify requirements for mask-wearing or vaccination, leaving many questions unanswered.