The first edition of the Israeli Poker Federation Cup concluded at the end of January in Bratislava, marking an important step for the federation on the international stage.
Organized by IPC, a group specialized in producing major tournaments across Europe for Israeli players, the event became the largest international tournament ever delivered by an official Israeli organization. The numbers reflect the scale:
• 970 players
• 11 tournaments
• 95 poker tables in operation
• 2,290 entries in the Main Event
• €389,000 Main Event prize pool
• €630,000 in total prize money
As an official member of the World Poker Federation since 2025, the Israeli Poker Federation set out to deliver an event aligned with international standards. The result was a well-structured festival combining operational quality with a strong competitive environment.
Beyond production, participants highlighted the atmosphere. The event brought together players in a spirit of respect, sportsmanship and mutual support. A delegation of more than 60 Israeli female players took part in the festival, adding both competitive strength and meaningful representation across multiple events. Their presence contributed to the dynamic at the tables and reinforced the inclusive growth of the Israeli poker community.
Main Event Champion
Eleven trophies were awarded throughout the series. The most prestigious title, the Israeli Federation Cup Main Event, was claimed by Lihai Struol after a heads-up deal against Stojanovic Mladen of Ukraine. Hungarian player Antonino Karman finished in third place.
The victory marks an important milestone for Struol and places his name in the history of the Israeli Poker Federation as the first champion of the Israeli Federation Cup.
In early May, the official Israeli Poker Championship will be held in Varna, once again organized by IPC, continuing the federation’s competitive calendar for 2026.
Strengthening Israeli Poker Internationally
The Israeli poker scene has shown consistent growth in recent years, with players achieving visible results across international arenas. The successful execution of the Israeli Poker Federation Cup reinforces this development and strengthens the federation’s position within the global structure.
The World Poker Federation congratulates the Israeli Poker Federation on the successful delivery of its inaugural Cup and looks forward to its continued contribution to the international growth of poker.
