November 16, 2024 will go down as one of the most important days in the history of poker. The beloved card game has been officially and forever recognized as a mind sport, a milestone achieved after decades of work, countless battles won, and the fundamental role of a strong global community that loves the game.
Poker has been approved for permanent and definitive entry into the International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) , the same entity that recognizes games such as chess and eSports. This marks the beginning of a new era for poker, legitimized as a sport that demands mental skills, strategy and concentration. The achievement was led by the World Poker Federation (WPF) , but belongs to all the thousands of players, industry professionals and entities that helped pave the way for poker to be recognized in its rightful place.
“With a strong network of federations in more than 49 countries, we have achieved something unprecedented and definitive today,” said Igor Trafane, president of the WPF. “IMSA’s decision represents the work and dedication of thousands of people who see poker as a true profession and an intellectual discipline. Our mission now is to build on the foundation that every great sport already has: regulations, professional pathways, player protections and international competitions.”
>> Click here to read the full article by Gabriel Grilo on PokerNews Brazil
