Argentina has firmly established itself on the global poker map, thanks to the remarkable achievements of its players on the World Series of Poker (WSOP) stage. The WSOP Circuit event held at Casino Iguazu in 2017 was a historic moment, marking the first time this prestigious series ventured into Argentina. Having secured sponsorship with an online partner, the festival featured six circuit ring events and highlighted the growing popularity of poker in South America. Players from across the continent gathered to compete in a luxurious and picturesque setting as part of the WSOP International Circuit.
The History of the WSOP in Argentina
In addition, several notable Argentine players have left an indelible mark on the WSOP. Damian Salas, Julio Belluscio, Jose Ignacio Barbero, Andres Korn, Ivan Luca, and Franco Ernesto Spitale represent some of the best of the poker elite in Argentina. Each of these players has not only won a coveted WSOP bracelet in Las Vegas, but also been part of inspiring a new generation of poker players in Argentina and beyond. Let’s now look a bit deeper into the players and the inaugural and only WSOP Circuit event to have played its way into history from Argentina.
The WSOP Argentina
The WSOP Circuit made a historic debut in Argentina from August 2-8, 2017, hosted at the prestigious Casino Iguazu. This event was particularly significant as it marked the first time the WSOP Circuit visited Argentina, expanding its reach in South America. Sponsored by an online partner, the festival featured six ring events, rings being the traditional prize for WSOP Circuit events, including the highlight $1,000 Main Event.
The Main Event attracted a large field of 934 entries. Rafael Pandolfo ultimately won, taking $140,050 back to his home in Brazil. This victory was a significant milestone in Pandolfo’s career, adding to the prestige of the event. The tournament series also included other notable events, including a Crazy Eights Side Event and a High Roller Tournament with a $2,500 buy-in.
Casino Iguazu, located near the Iguazu Falls, provided a scenic and luxurious backdrop for the event. The casino is renowned for its top-notch facilities and has been a prominent entertainment center in South America for over two decades. The success of this event underscored the growing popularity of poker in the region, was a picturesque backdrop to the WSOP Circuit, and set the stage for future tournaments.
The Argentine WSOP Players
Argentina has had several notable WSOP bracelet winners. As of the latest WSOP, the 55th running in its illustrious history, the country has a total of seven WSOP bracelets. Here are some details about the Argentine players who have won the coveted WSOP bracelets.
Damian Salas
Damian Salas is a prominent figure in the world of poker, known for his historic wins and remarkable consistency. Salas, hailing from Chascomús, Argentina, made history by becoming the first Argentine to win the WSOP Main Event in 2020, earning him global recognition and a significant boost to his poker career.
Salas’ journey in poker is a testament to his dedication and skill. He began playing poker online before transitioning to live tournaments. His strategic approach and ability to read opponents have been key to his success. In addition to his 2020 Main Event win, Salas has numerous victories and final table appearances, making him one of Argentina’s most successful poker players. He has earned over $5.5 million from WSOP events over the years and has over $6 million in total tournament winnings,
Off the felt, Salas is a lawyer, balancing his professional career with his passion for poker. His story is one of perseverance and adaptability, inspiring many aspiring poker players in Argentina and beyond.
Julio Belluscio
Julio Belluscio is another notable WSOP bracelet winner from Argentina, known for his calm demeanor and strategic prowess. Belluscio’s victory came in 2023, marking a significant achievement for Argentine poker at the time. His win brought attention to the continually growing poker scene in South America.
Belluscio has been a regular on the World Series of Poker circuit since 2010, participating in numerous international tournaments. His consistent performances and ability to stay composed under pressure have earned him respect among his peers. Outside of poker, Belluscio enjoys spending time with his family and shares insights about balancing professional poker with personal life.
Andres Korn
Andres Korn burst onto the international poker scene in 2006 when he finished 199th in the World Series of Poker Main Event. It took him 11 more years before his first WSOP bracelet win in the $5,000 No-Limit Hold’em event in 2017. Korn’s victory was a proud moment for Argentina, showcasing the country’s emerging talent in poker.
Korn’s poker career is characterized by his analytical approach and deep understanding of the game. He has participated in various international tournaments, consistently performing well and earning respect for his strategic gameplay. Korn’s ability to stay focused and make calculated decisions has been key to his success.
Outside of poker, Korn is dedicated to promoting the game in Argentina, often participating in local tournaments and events. His contributions to the poker community and his achievements on the global stage make him a significant figure in Argentine poker.
Franco Ernesto Spitale
Spitale is the latest addition to Argentina’s list of WSOP bracelet winners, having won the 2024 Millionaire Maker event. Spitale’s victory was a significant achievement, earning him a substantial prize and adding to Argentina’s growing poker legacy.
Spitale’s approach to the game is characterized by patience and precision. His ability to navigate large fields and make deep runs in tournaments showcases his skill and determination. Spitale’s win in the Millionaire Maker event was a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game.
Outside of poker, Spitale is known for his philanthropic efforts. He often participates in charity events and uses his platform to give back to the community. His success on the poker felt, and his contributions off it make him a well-rounded and respected figure in the poker world.
Ivan Luca
Ivan made history by becoming the first Argentine to win a WSOP bracelet, achieving this milestone in the $1,000 No-Limit Hold’em event in 2015. Luca’s win was a groundbreaking moment for Argentine poker, inspiring many young players to pursue the game professionally.
Luca is known for his aggressive playstyle and exceptional reading skills. His success in both online and live tournaments has made him a well-respected player worldwide. Luca’s poker resume includes multiple titles and final table appearances, solidifying his reputation as one of the best players in South America.
Apart from poker, Luca enjoys spending time with his partner, who is also a professional poker player. Together, they travel the world, competing in tournaments and sharing their experiences with the poker community.
Jose Ignacio “Nacho” Barbero
Barbero is one of Argentina’s most recognized poker talents. Known for his aggressive playstyle and charisma, Barbero won his WSOP bracelet in the $10,000 Super Turbo Bounty No-Limit Hold’em event in 2022. This win solidified his status as one of the top players from South America.
Barbero’s poker journey began with online poker, where he quickly made a name for himself. His success online translated to live tournaments, where he has won numerous titles, including Latin American Poker Tour (LAPT), EPT, Poker Go, and Triton events. Barbero’s ability to adapt to different formats and his fearless approach make him a formidable opponent and is part of why he is number 1 amongst Argentinians in total live tournament winnings.
Away from the tables, Barbero is known for his love of travel and adventure often sharing his experiences with his followers on social media. His dynamic personality and passion for the game have made him a popular figure in the poker community.
The Future of the WSOP Circuit and Argentina
Argentina’s presence in the world of poker has grown significantly over the past decade, with its players achieving remarkable success on the international stage. The historic WSOP Circuit event at Casino Iguazu in 2017 not only marked a milestone for the country but also showcased the burgeoning talent within its borders.
The achievements of the six players, Damian Salas, Julio Belluscio, Jose Ignacio Barbero, Andres Korn, Ivan Luca, and Franco Ernesto Spitale, have brought pride to Argentina and inspired countless aspiring poker players. Each of these players has demonstrated exceptional skill, strategic prowess, and a deep passion for the game, earning them well-deserved recognition and accolades.
In addition to the bracelets, 27 Argentine poker players have won WSOP Circuit events around the world, including Uruguay, Brazil, and the U.K. Winners include well known players including Maria Lampropulos, Ezequiel Waigel, and Pamela Balzano. These players continue to promote poker in Argentina and regularly complete in WSOP Circuit events and in Las Vegas.
Their stories are not just about winning bracelets but also about the dedication, hard work, and resilience required to succeed in the highly competitive world of poker. They have paved the way for future generations of Argentine poker players, proving that with determination and skill, success on the global stage is within reach. And if you find yourself in a WSOP tournament with any of these Argentine players, be warned, they are good.
As Argentina continues to produce world-class poker talent, the legacy of these six players will undoubtedly inspire and influence the next wave of champions. Their contributions to the game, both on and off the felt, have solidified Argentina’s reputation as a country to watch in the poker world. Has poker grown enough that another WSOP Circuit or International Circuit could come back to this beautiful country? Only time will tell what the future holds for the world of poker in Argentina.
