The BSOP, the main poker event, is third only to the Copa do Brasil and the Campeonato Brasileiro, with a total projected prize pool of over R$150 million (US$ 27m). For comparison, the CBF distributes approximately R$500 million (US$ 91.2m) to the 20 clubs of the Brasileirão and R$450 million (US$ 82m) to the 92 participants of the Copa do Brasil.
The BSOP amounts set a new record for Brazilian poker and consolidate the tournament as the third largest prize pool in Brazilian sports, behind only the Brasileirão and the Copa do Brasil.
“The continued expansion of prize pools and the professionalization of poker events in Brazil are an indication that poker has established itself as a respected and attractive sport for Brazilian players and players from around the world,” commented Leonardo Cavarge, Financial Director of the World Poker Federation (WPF), which has the Brazilian Texas Hold’em Confederation (CBTH) as an affiliate, and the BSOP as its official Brazilian championship.
“By reaching such levels, the BSOP not only benefits players, but also strengthens the image of poker as a serious and highly competitive sport,” he concluded.
The BSOP has already completed three stages in 2024: São Paulo (February 28 to March 5), Natal (May 30 to June 4) and again São Paulo (July 23 to 31), with approximately R$75 million US$ 13.6m) distributed in prizes. With the conclusion of the next two stages, in Rio de Janeiro (October 9 to 16) and São Paulo (November 15 to 29), the total prize projected could reach R$150 million (US$ 27m), 20% more than the R$125 million (US$ 22.8m) distributed throughout 2023.
“We are very excited and enthusiastic about the growth of the BSOP and poker in Brazil. What has caught our attention the most is the large number of players who did not play the game a year ago, showing that poker has definitely become popular among Brazilians,” comments Devanir Campos, BSOP CEO.
The adjustment made by the CBF in its main competitions was 5%, compared to last year's quota values. The BSOP, with 20%, should record a growth greater than that of football in this historic season.
Compared to other sports, such as NBA basketball, which awarded the Boston Celtics, its champion, the amount of US$ 33.7 million (R$ 181m) at the exchange rate at the time), poker is close to the total value.
Source: GMB
