WSOP to require proof of full vaccination

The World Series of Poker announced that anyone attending the 2021 World Series of Poker tournament and $10,000 No-Limit Hold’em World Championship, best known as “The Main Event,” will be required to show proof that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The event returns to live play at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino with the policy in effect beginning Thursday, 30 September through Tuesday, 23 November.

“This is not a decision we have taken lightly–it is made with no agenda beyond protecting player eligibility and the operations of a unique televised gaming event,” said Ty Stewart, WSOP Executive Director. “The nature of poker is to be in close proximity with your opponents for extended periods of time, and a seat at the World Series of Poker is a commitment for both our company and the participants. We want players to be excited for their return to the WSOP, while offering the greatest level of protection and limiting complications during the tournament this fall.”

Participants will be required to show proof that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 one time, upon first registration, to become eligible to participate in WSOP events, including bracelet events, deep stack tournaments, satellites and live action games.

The WSOP will make use of CLEAR’s free mobile app and Health Pass feature. Participants who successfully add their proof of full vaccination through CLEAR's Health Pass may go directly to the registration cage tellers within the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino Convention Center. WSOP will also provide an on-site center to verify alternate documentation including physical vaccination cards, and state or country-specific health passes.

To be considered “fully vaccinated” against COVID-19, participants must receive their final vaccine dose 14 days prior to start date. This policy is inclusive of all participants, press, spectators and vendors.

Consistent with current CDC guidelines and state mandates, all attendees and Team Members will be required to wear masks. Additionally, with the new policy, fully vaccinated WSOP participants who may have been exposed to a person who has tested positive will not be required to leave the tournament and quarantine if they remain asymptomatic since the time of exposure.