The World Series of Poker has announced that anyone planning on playing the live 2021 WSOP in Las Vegas will be required to provide proof that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
“This is not a decision we have taken lightly -it is made with no agenda beyond protecting player eligibility and the operations of a unique televised gaming event,” said WSOP Executive Director Ty Stewart. “The nature of poker is to be in close proximity with your opponents for extended periods of time, and a seat at the World Series of Poker is a commitment for both our company and the participants. We want players to be excited for their return to the WSOP while offering the greatest level of protection and limiting complications during the tournament this fall.”
According to the WSOP press release, proof of vaccination will be a one-time occurrence and will take place at the time of registering for a player’s first event, whether that be bracelet events, the daily deep stack tournaments, single table satellites, or cash games inside the Rio Pavillion.
In addition to proof of vaccination, all attendees and staff will be required to wear masks to comply with the current state mandate. To be considered “fully vaccinated” and eligible to participate, participants will need to have received their final dose of the vaccine 14 days before the start of their participation. The policy extends to players, staff, press, and vendors.
To provide proof of vaccination the WSOP will be using CLEAR’s free mobile app and Health Pass. Not unlike being pre-vetted for security on an airline, players who opt for the CLEAR app will have fast-pass-like access and can proceed directly to the registration cage to sign up for a tournament. For those who wish not to, or are unable to use the CLEAR app, the WSOP will have the offer on-site verification of physical vaccination cards, and country-specific health passes.
The 2021 World Series of Poker takes place from Thursday, September 30 through Tuesday, November 23.