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It's back!
The World Series of Poker main event is returning to ESPN following a five year absence.
ESPN had been the primary home of the WSOP for decades up through 2020.
On Thursday, ESPN and the World Series of Poker announced a multiyear agreement to bring the competition back to the media outlet's platforms this summer. The new deal is highlighted by more than 100 hours of coverage of the main event beginning on July 2, culminating in a three-night linear finale for the final table from Aug. 3 to 5.
Since 2021, CBS Sports has aired edited main event coverage for select bracelet events. CBS Sports is only available in approximately 45% of households nationwide compared to approximately 90% of households that carry ESPN.
"It's with great pride that the WSOP is coming home to ESPN," Stewart said in an email. "The legacy of this partnership helped the game explode and we can't wait to deliver inspiration through world class content to a new generation of viewers."
Early-round coverage of the main event will include three simultaneous featured tables, allowing viewers to see more hands from the top players as they make their way through the tournament. World Series of Poker CEO Ty Stewart touted a "high-paced viewing experience" with the new broadcasts.
ESPN began broadcasting the World Series of Poker in 1987.
"Welcoming the World Series of Poker back to ESPN is a meaningful moment for fans and for us," ESPN vice president of programming and acquisitions Ashley O'Connor said in a statement. "We're excited to showcase the intensity and unpredictability of this tournament across our platforms."
- Ace King, Gambling911.com
