The World Series of Poker (WSOP) has introduced several critical rule updates for the 2024 season, aimed at ensuring a fair, distraction-free, and professional environment during its prestigious tournaments. These changes address elect-ronic device usage, spectator conduct, tournament pacing, and player behavior during pivotal gameplay moments.
Here’s a breakdown of the newly implemented regulations which you can expect to see rolled out for this year´s WSOP:
1. Restricting Electronic Assistance and Coaching
Rule Update: Players and spectators are prohibited from using charts, apps, or any form of electronic assistance in the tournament room.
- Enforcement: Failure to adhere to this rule will result in penalties, including potential disqualification for players and removal from the tournament area for spectators.
- Coaching Ban: Spectators are explicitly prohibited from providing live assistance or coaching during gameplay. Any violations will result in penalties for both the player and the spectator.
Additionally, non-players on the rail must adhere to the WSOP Terms & Conditions, including the rule prohibiting live stream viewing on electronic devices. These measures aim to prevent unfair advantages and protect the integrity of the game.
2. Prohibiting Devices on Tables
Rule 62: Players are no longer allowed to place electronic devices on the poker table or table rail.
This rule ensures that players remain focused and reduces the risk of real-time assistance or misuse of technology during gameplay.
3. Banning Device Usage in Later Tournament Stages
Rule 63a & c: Once the tournament field is reduced to three tables, the use of electronic devices by players is strictly prohibited.
By implementing this restriction, the WSOP ensures that players rely solely on their skills and strategies during critical stages of the competition.
4. Flexible Scheduling for Day 1
Rule 122: The duration of Day 1 play may now be adjusted based on the number of entries and the pace of play.
This update provides tournament organizers with greater flexibility to ensure a smooth and efficient schedule, accommodating varying field sizes.
5. New Guidelines for Hand-for-Hand Play
Rule 127f: During Hand-for-Hand play, players leaving their seats must exit the tournament area and are not allowed to observe other tables. This change eliminates opportunities for players to gather strategic insights from other tables during bubble play, fostering a more competitive and ethical environment.
6. Limiting Spectator Access to Live Streams
New Rule: Spectators on the rail are not allowed to watch live feature table or final table streams on their devices.
This policy addresses concerns about potential information relaying between spectators and players, ensuring the integrity of decision-making during televised and streamed gameplay.
Why have these changes been made now?
Jonathan Tamayo’s victory in the 2024 World Series of Poker Main Event was overshadowed by controversy regarding his use of coaching and poker applications during the final table.
Throughout the event, Tamayo frequently consulted with players on the rail between hands, one of whom was observed using a laptop, leading to suspicions that he was running poker solvers to provide Tamayo with strategic advice between hands. Coming out on top of the field, Tamayo banked $10,000,000 for 1st place.
The WSOP’s official rules prohibited the use of betting apps, gaming charts, or any poker information tools while a player is involved in a hand. However, the regulations are less explicit about the use of such tools between hands. This ambiguity has sparked debate within the poker community about the ethical implications of Tamayo’s actions. Prominent players, including Daniel Negreanu, have criticized the practice, arguing that it violates the spirit of the game and calling for clearer rules to address the use of real-time assistance during tournaments
What These Changes Mean for Players and Spectators
The WSOP’s new rules reflect a continued commitment to maintaining a fair and distraction-free environment. By addressing electronic device usage, coaching, and spectator behavior, the organization reinforces its dedication to preserving the spirit of the game.
Players are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these changes to avoid penalties, while spectators are reminded to respect the rules to ensure the integrity and professionalism of the event.
Based in London, Natasha is a former sports journalist with experience working for some of the biggest athletes & brands in the world of sports and iGaming.