WSOP 2025 Rule Modification: Prohibition of Cell Phones, Vlogging Restrictions, and Introduction of a New Application
World Series of Poker (WSOP) Introduces Strict New Rules to Enhance Integrity
The World Series of Poker (WSOP) has announced a new rulebook effective immediately, aiming to maintain the integrity of the game and crack down on cheating and unauthorized coaching.
The WSOP+ app will play a significant role in enforcing these new rules. The app will provide real-time live information on chip counts, tournament statuses, and results, as well as structure sheets, bubble warnings, and real-time push notifications for seat assignments. Payments can be made via credit card (with a 3% fee), PayPal, Luxon Pay, tournament account, or ACH (for U.S. players only) through the WSOP+ app.
To qualify for media accreditation at WSOP 2025, applicants must be professional journalists affiliated with recognized media outlets, demonstrate coverage of major poker events, and provide valid press credentials and identification. Filming during play is no longer allowed without official media accreditation, which is reserved for full-time journalists. The only exception to the filming rule is filming one’s own all-in, after the action is complete.
Coaching is only allowed during official breaks. Rule 116 specifies that strategic discussions with outsiders are prohibited during the entire tournament time, even between hands. Rule 64(d) prohibits any form of support from spectators, whether verbal or electronic. Mobile phones are banned at the final three tables of all WSOP events, except for WSOP's own apps like WSOP.com, WSOP, and Caesars Sports App.
The new rules could be a response to the 2024 coaching scandal involving Jonathan Tamayo. During the 2024 WSOP Main Event, Tamayo was seen multiple times with a laptop at his table’s rail. Violations of the new rules may result in disqualification.
Tardy arrivals to the tournament, arriving after the first break, will be excluded from the tournament but will receive a refund of their buy-in. Players who attempt to avoid blinds by changing tables will automatically forfeit the small blind, big blind, and BB ante.
A WSOP+ account will be mandatory in the future, but can be set up on-site using a QR code without a smartphone. Those who register online will need to identify themselves once on-site. The new rules aim to create a fair and transparent environment for all players.
The WSOP aims to maintain the integrity of the game with a zero-tolerance policy. The new rulebook is part of the organisation's commitment to ensuring that the World Series of Poker remains the premier poker event in the world.
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