Debut Performance of Eurovision in Sochi Scheduled for 2020 Russian Stage
Let's get this show on the road, since the European Poker Tour's grand debut in 2020 is happening in Russia, Sochi, specifically in Krasnaya Polyana—but not in the typical March fashion. Instead, it's kicking off in September. So, here's your chance to dust off those cards and get ready to roll!
Just like before, many players will snag their seats in the Main Event through satellites running right now on PokerStars. This means sharp poker professionals will have plenty of fish to feast on, increasing their odds of success. Past results from Sochi's poker festivals show that winners come from all over the world, although Russian-speaking participants make up around 90% of the total. Last year, a Chinese player won the EPT Open, and in 2019, an Israeli player named Uri Gilboa took the top spot. Time to bring that championship title home!
Satellites Galore
Holding a winning hand isn't impossible. With a bit of luck, you can snag a Main Event ticket for free, thanks to four free-to-enter freerolls every week at 16:40 MSK.
Satellites start at $2.2, and every Sunday, there are supersatellites with guaranteed 5 Main Event packages. Over 100 players have already secured their seats in the Main Event, including Russian champions from PokerStars COOP series and even WCOOP-2020 winners.
Sochi, Here We Come!
Sochi traditionally attracts a massive crowd of Russian-speaking players, thanks to the location of Krasnaya Polyana. If you're flying from Moscow, you can reach "Casino Sochi" in just three hours, as there are frequent flights. The road trip takes roughly a day, but the flight costs are a steal compared to the journey by car.
Participating in a major poker tournament isn't just about the chance to win, network with other players, and experience the thrill of the big game. It's also about creating unforgettable memories, especially for recreational players who might only experience this once in a lifetime. And it's even more enjoyable when these memories come with high-quality gifts from PokerStars. All Main Event participants will receive some swag, but the details are still under wraps.
Weather Forecast
The weather in Krasnaya Polyana can be a little unpredictable, much like in any mountains. But if you head down to the sea, you'll almost always find bright sunshine and warm, still Black Sea waters. After spending most of the year in lockdown, this opportunity to play poker and catch the velvet beach season shouldn't be missed.
Safety First
PokerStars, Marriott Hotel, and "Casino Sochi" are working together to ensure safety measures for everyone. We aim to provide the safest possible environment for players and staff. Personal protective equipment, enhanced sanitization, health screenings, and limited attendance are some precautions you can likely expect at the event. Regulations may also comply with state, local, or territorial laws.
Under the Spotlight
The Main Event and other tournaments will be extensively covered on-site. Roman Paksiutkin will lead our team of journalists.
Gaming Schedules
The EPT Sochi festival offers 25 tournaments, including the Main Event. The most expensive event is the high roller with a buy-in of 371,000 rubles. The most affordable are the satellites to the main event for 8,750 rubles. Omaha enthusiasts can enjoy two events in four-card games. Players of all limits will find their place at the table.
Cash Games or Tournaments—Your Choice! The cash game area during EPT Sochi will operate 24/7. So, if you haven't had enough of tournament poker for any reason, you're always welcome in other rooms of "Casino Sochi".
Discuss all things EPT Sochi in the forum!
I'm playing poker as part of the various sports events during the European Poker Tour's grand debut in Sochi, Russia.
In addition to poker, other tournaments like Omaha games are available during the EPT Sochi festival, making it a multi-sports event for card enthusiasts.
