The Rich History of WSOP Europe
The European version of WSOPE began in 2007 as the first event where players could win gold bracelets outside Las Vegas. The debut in London was sensational, with 18-year-old Annette Obrestad becoming the youngest bracelet winner. After four years in England, the festival moved to Cannes and then to Paris, where Phil Hellmuth triumphed in 2012. In 2015, WSOPE was hosted in Berlin, and after a one-year hiatus, the series relocated to Rozvadov. Notable Main Event winners include John Juanda, Elio Fox, Kevin MacPhee, and Jack Sinclair.
Since 2017, WSOPE has been held at King's Resort in Rozvadov on the Czech-German border. However, many professional players criticized its isolation on social media. Italian player Mustapha Kanit questioned why WSOP Europe continued to be held in Rozvadov, a town he described as lacking history or culture. He remarked that even winning there didn't make him want to return. Argentine Nacho Barbero called King's the "worst place" he ever visited, and American Tony Dunst vowed never to return.
Critics argue that Rozvadov's isolation reduces the festival's appeal. Located on the Czech-German border, the nearest major city is Nuremberg, about 90 minutes away. Players must travel several hours from Prague or Germany, with local accommodations and dining limited to a hotel buffet and one restaurant. The town's lack of cultural life influences the lower participation numbers, according to many.
From all the places in Europe, how the heck do you end up organizing the WSOPE in Rozvadov, over and over.
— Mustapha Kanit (@Mustacchione) October 2, 2025
Even if you win, you don’t want to go back there.
That place is bad for poker. Bad for the soul.
I hope they find a location one day because I would like to play that main.
Announcement of the Move and Organizers’ Ambitions
During the press release, WSOP emphasized that moving to Prague represents a fresh start for the festival's European branch. WSOP Executive Director Ty Stewart called it an "exciting rebirth of WSOP Europe in Prague," highlighting the aim to make the new event one of the world's best. Despite the new location, WSOP remains true to tradition, maintaining fifteen bracelet events, with the detailed schedule to be announced later.
The move to Prague is seen by many players as a logical step. The new location not only offers better accessibility but also an attractive setting—Prague's city center is a tourist magnet and one of Europe’s most visitor-friendly spots. Spring in Prague is pleasantly warm, with the tranquil atmosphere of old streets complemented by numerous restaurants, bars, and hotels.
The shift to Prague also marks a return to the spring months. The festival will run from March 31 to April 12, 2026, avoiding the crowded autumn season and offering players a more convenient schedule. It’s expected that spring in Prague will provide better travel conditions and attract more tourists. A novelty will be the full integration of the WSOP+ app, allowing players to follow tournament progress, registrations, and payouts in real time.
Community Reactions: From Criticism to Anticipation
While many professionals criticized Rozvadov, some players appreciated the location's atmosphere. Shaun Deeb, who won his eighth bracelet there, stated that Rozvadov suited him due to the lack of distractions and good action at the tables. Local hero Martin Kabrhel won his fifth bracelet in Rozvadov in 2025, proudly noting that King’s Resort brought him great success.
Despite these positive voices, the consensus is that a move to Prague is necessary. Four-time bracelet winner David Baker noted on social network X that he wasn’t even aware of the ongoing WSOP Europe, suggesting minimal media attention. Players like Jesse Lonis believe that in a "major European city," participation numbers could triple.
It’s the last year here but I think this was one of the best stops for so long I enjoy good poker action and no distractions this place was always perfect for me and looked forward to it. And yes, I felt this way before winning a bracelet here https://t.co/8dmFOWdBPd
— shaun deeb (@shaundeeb) October 2, 2025
The move of WSOP Europe from Rozvadov to Prague symbolizes more than just a change of address. It is a shift from an isolated border to the heart of Europe, with the potential to reinvigorate interest in this still-prestigious event. In the stunning environment of historic Prague, the festival could attract a wider range of players and fans. While old stories from Rozvadov will remain in memory, new chapters will begin on the banks of the Vltava next year—and the entire poker world eagerly awaits what the Prague spring will bring for WSOP Europe.
Sources – WSOP, PokerListings, Tomas Stacha Photo
