Poker Gains Global Recognition as a Mind Sport
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In a significant development for the poker community, the International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) has officially recognized poker as a Mind Sport, placing it alongside established disciplines like chess and eSports.
Established in 2005, the IMSA is a global organization that promotes intellectual competition and recognizes disciplines that emphasize strategy, mental skill, and decision-making.
The decision follows years of advocacy led by the World Poker Federation (WPF), which represents over 45 national federations. The WPF has worked to promote poker as a discipline requiring mental skill, strategy, and focus, characteristics that align with IMSA��s criteria for Mind Sports.
��This recognition represents the dedication of thousands who view poker as a genuine intellectual discipline,�� said Igor Trafane, President of the WPF.
��It��s an important step in solidifying poker��s status on a global stage.��
The event received support from major poker institutions, including PokerStars, the Brazilian Series of Poker (BSOP), Suprema Poker, and H2 Club.
The highlight of the evening was a special tournament that brought together more than 70 guests in a relaxed and enjoyable competition.
PokerStars awarded the winners with entries to major events: the Main Event of the Latin America Poker Tour (LAPT) for the champion, the Main Event of the Brazilian Series of Poker (BSOP) for the runner-up, and the Main Event of the S?o Paulo State Poker Championship (CPH) for the third-place finisher.
Implications of the Recognition
The inclusion of poker as a Mind Sport is expected to bring several benefits, including:
- For Players: Increased legitimacy, new career pathways, and expanded opportunities for international competition.
- For the Workforce: Greater industry stability and growth.
- For Businesses and Sponsors: A more structured environment for partnerships and investments.
Leonardo Cavarge, CEO of the WPF, emphasized the federation��s commitment to building a formal framework for the sport.
��Our next step is to establish standardized regulations, ensure player protections, and create international competitive structures,�� he said.
The Path to Recognition
Poker��s recognition by IMSA follows a provisional membership granted to the WPF in December 2022. Over the past two years, the WPF has focused on unifying national federations, cooperating with governments, and promoting poker��s development.
The federation aims to position poker as a discipline rooted in strategy and decision-making under pressure��qualities shared with other Mind Sports.
Looking Ahead
The organisation sees the recognition as an important milestone for poker��s development as a sport. While challenges remain in terms of regulation and public perception, WPF leaders believe this step provides a strong foundation for the future.
For more updates, the World Poker Federation can be followed on their official Instagram.
