The latest poker festival will run through the next several weeks
The 2024 World Poker Tour (WPT) World Championship kicks off today at Wynn Las Vegas, drawing poker enthusiasts from around the globe. This year’s series offers a mix of tradition and innovation, with changes that aim to elevate the experience for players and fans alike.
The $10,400 buy-in WPT World Championship takes center stage, scheduled from December 14 to 21. Unlike last year, the event will not feature a prize pool guarantee.
In 2023, a $40 million guarantee led to an impressive turnout of 3,835 entries, the largest field in WPT main tour history. However, it resulted in a $2.4 million overlay, prompting organizers to take a different approach this year. The championship includes three starting flights, with players allowed one entry per flight, followed by five days of combined action leading to the crowning of the winner.
A major highlight of the series is the $5 million freeroll tournament, the largest ever in poker history. Scheduled for December 13 and 14, this event will award 100 seats into the championship and a $1 million prize for its winner. This freeroll celebrates the launch of ClubWPT Gold, adding an exciting layer to the tournament lineup.
Returning to the schedule is the $1,100 buy-in WPT Prime Championship, set to run from December 8 to 14, offering a $5 million guaranteed prize pool. Beyond these marquee events, the festival boasts over 60 tournaments and satellite events, ensuring something for everyone.
Wynn Las Vegas and the WPT are once again showcasing their dedication to growing the game of poker. Ryan Beauregard, Executive Director of Poker Operations at Wynn, emphasized the effort to create a schedule that appeals to the poker community, while WPT CEO Adam Pliska highlighted the freeroll as a groundbreaking addition to the series.
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