WSOP Main Event Final Table Modified

The main event of the World Series of Poker is the biggest tournament of the poker season. This year the $10,000 buy-in event is undergoing a major change as the final table of the event will not be completed until November, allowing ESPN to televise it just hours after it ends. The final table of the main event will be determined on July 14th but then the players will not return until November 9th with action concluding on November 10th.

Many poker players are not happy with the change. It was done to allow ESPN to hype the event and so they could provide “almost live” coverage.

ESPN is scheduled to begin their broadcasts of early series events on July 22nd. They will continue broadcasts all the way up until their coverage of the final table in November. Final table action will begin on November 9th with play continuing until they reach the final two. The heads-up battle will begin on November 10th and ESPN’s broadcast of the final table will be on November 11th at 9:00 pm Eastern.

There are advantages and disadvantages to the big delay in starting the final table. With a four month delay, ESPN will be able to promote their coverage and increase interest from poker viewers. The drawbacks are numerous for the players including the possibility that a player gets sick or injured and can’t make the final table. Amateur players, who oftentimes fill the final table, could also receive tips and help in advance of the final table in addition to the many sponsorship opportunities they will have to deal with.

There is also no question that the four month break will change everything in regards to momentum and how the tournament was being played. Another major problem could be collusion as players get together in advance of the final table and formulate a strategy. The WSOP is trying to take measures to prevent collusion but how effective they will be is up for debate.

Last year the main event had a total of 6,358 players. This year’s field is expected to be similar with the field being split up into four opening days. The first of those days is July 3rd.