“I want to strengthen the connection between the two entities. Together, we can expand the game to even more people by investing in education, major events, and initiatives that showcase the competitiveness and inclusive spirit of our sport. Poker develops crucial skills such as strategy, concentration, and emotional control. We will work to ensure these benefits reach every corner of Brazil while maintaining our collaboration with the WPF on an international level,” says Alberoni.
Over the past eight years, CBTH was under the leadership of Ueltom Lima Gomes, one of the key figures responsible for founding the global entity. At the end of his two-term tenure, Ueltom brought significant progress and achievements to Brazilian poker, playing an active role in recognizing the game as a sport on the national scene.
During this period, Brazilian poker experienced rapid growth, with estimates indicating more than 12 million active players in the country. Additionally, this cycle was marked by a significant increase in the number of tournaments and the scale of major events.
“It is gratifying to see how much poker has become a recognized and embraced activity among Brazilians. These years have been dedicated to strengthening the game’s image, extending beyond tournament tables and becoming part of the daily lives of thousands of people,” Ueltom celebrates.
“I want to thank the previous board and everyone who fought alongside us to promote poker and introduce the sport to more and more Brazilians. I wish Bill and the new board all the success in carrying this legacy forward with the same passion and commitment,” adds the former president.
Founded in 2009, CBTH has become one of the leading global players in the poker scene, working in close alignment with the WPF to promote and strengthen the sport. Landmark events, such as the 2025 São Paulo Carnival—where the samba school Rosas de Ouro included poker in its parade—demonstrate the growing cultural reach of the game.
The increasing popularity of poker in Brazil, combined with the consistent presence of Brazilian players at the top of major poker series, reaffirms the strength of the WPF-CBTH partnership on a global scale.
“Bill is one of the most prominent names in Brazilian poker, with a long career dedicated to advancing the sport. He is a serious and highly competent individual, well-prepared to take on this new challenge. His appointment strengthens the global alignment of the game, combining the WPF’s expertise with CBTH’s influence in the Brazilian market—creating new opportunities for the sustainable growth of poker worldwide,” says Leonardo Cavarge, CEO of WPF.
Source: GMB
