Poker Officially Recognized as a Mind Sport: A Game-Changing Milestone

In a historic moment for the poker community, the International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) has officially recognized poker as a Mind Sport. This places poker alongside prestigious intellectual disciplines like chess and eSports, marking a significant leap in its global status.

Established in 2005, IMSA is dedicated to promoting intellectual competition and recognizing games that prioritize strategy, mental agility, and decision-making.

A Triumph of Advocacy and Perseverance

This milestone is the result of relentless advocacy led by the World Poker Federation (WPF), which represents over 45 national poker federations. For years, the WPF has championed poker as a game requiring mental discipline, strategic thinking, and focused decision-making—all key criteria for Mind Sports.

Speaking on the recognition, Igor Trafane, President of the WPF, remarked:
“This recognition represents the dedication of thousands who view poker as a genuine intellectual discipline. It’s an important step in solidifying poker’s status on a global stage.”

The acknowledgment cements poker’s identity as more than a game of chance. It’s a skill-based discipline demanding sharp mental acuity and resilience under pressure.

Celebrating the Win

On November 16, 2024, poker’s elevation to Mind Sport status was celebrated with a high-profile event, bringing together over 70 guests, including prominent industry figures and players.

Supported by major poker institutions like PokerStars, the Brazilian Series of Poker (BSOP), Suprema Poker, and H2 Club, the evening featured a special tournament that mixed competition with camaraderie.

The winners didn’t just leave with trophies; they earned coveted entries to some of the poker world’s biggest events:

• Champion: Main Event of the Latin America Poker Tour (LAPT).
• Runner-Up: Main Event of the Brazilian Series of Poker (BSOP).
• Third Place: Main Event of the São Paulo State Poker Championship (CPH).

The atmosphere wasn’t just celebratory—it was a moment of validation for everyone who has tirelessly advocated for poker’s recognition as a sport.

What This Means for Poker

The recognition of poker as a Mind Sport carries profound implications for players, businesses, and the industry as a whole:

• For Players: Poker gains credibility as a legitimate intellectual sport, opening up career opportunities and expanding the scope for international competitions.
• For the Workforce: A more stable and professional poker ecosystem ensures growth and long-term sustainability.
• For Businesses and Sponsors: Recognition creates a structured environment ripe for partnerships, investments, and innovation.

Leonardo Cavarge, CEO of the WPF, emphasized the federation’s commitment to fostering poker’s growth:
“Our next step is to establish standardized regulations, ensure player protections, and create international competitive structures.”

The Journey to Recognition

This milestone follows years of groundwork by the WPF, which secured provisional membership with IMSA in December 2022. Since then, the federation has worked tirelessly to unite national federations, collaborate with governments, and showcase poker’s strategic depth.

By aligning poker with other Mind Sports, the WPF has effectively positioned it as a discipline that thrives on strategy, decision-making under pressure, and mental agility.

The Road Ahead

While poker’s new status is a monumental achievement, challenges remain. Public perception of poker as merely a gambling pastime needs to evolve, and regulations across various regions must catch up.

However, this recognition provides a strong foundation for poker’s future. With continued efforts by organizations like the WPF and IMSA, poker is poised to flourish as a global Mind Sport.

The journey may have been long, but this milestone marks just the beginning of poker’s evolution from a game of chance to a celebrated sport of the mind.