The popular podcast has been looking for a new home to continue its 10-year run
The Chip Race podcast has found a new home. The award-winning poker show, hosted by Dara O’Kearney and David Lappin, has secured a one-year sponsorship deal with WPT Global, ensuring its continued production and expanding its reach.
The partnership not only supports The Chip Race but also extends to its sister show, The Lock-In. Both programs are known for their thoughtful poker content, honest discussions, and commitment to the wider poker community. With this new agreement, O’Kearney and Lappin will also serve as brand ambassadors for WPT Global, one of the fastest-growing platforms in online poker.
🚨 BREAKING NEWS!!! 🚨 pic.twitter.com/YQpEoYbFFP
— 🎙 The Chip Race 🎙Sponsored by WPT Global (@thechiprace) June 1, 2025
O’Kearney noted that Unibet gave them the space to plan ahead once it became clear that their time there was ending. That transparency allowed them to explore other opportunities, and WPT Global quickly emerged as a leading contender. The new sponsor stood out for its international focus and shared values, particularly around keeping editorial independence—a key factor for the hosts.
“The show has always been about more than poker strategy,” said Lappin. “We’ve never been afraid to take on controversial subjects, and we wanted to be sure that any new partner would support that integrity.”
The agreement with WPT Global comes at a crucial moment. After the Unibet partnership ended, the show’s future was uncertain, despite its strong fanbase and industry reputation. Both hosts acknowledged that finding the right sponsor was essential to maintaining the tone and mission of the podcast.
Now under the WPT Global banner, O’Kearney and Lappin are looking forward to continuing their work while promoting the brand’s player-focused initiatives. Their ambassador roles will include community engagement and maintaining the direct connection with fans that has helped define their presence in the poker world.
