In a move aimed at offering a second chance, GGPoker has once again opened the doors for previously banned players to appeal their suspensions. The relaunch of its Olive Branch Initiative was announced on September 19, 2025, giving affected players a unique opportunity to apply for reinstatement.
The initiative, which is now live, gives banned players until October 1, 2025, to submit their appeals. Players who wish to regain access to the platform will have to convince the team that they have made genuine, meaningful changes to their behavior. All decisions will be communicated to players by November 1, 2025.
A Path to Redemption, but Not a Guarantee
While GGPoker’s Olive Branch Initiative offers a rare opportunity for players to return to the platform, the company has made it clear that reinstatement is not automatic.
“At GGPoker, we maintain a zero-tolerance stance against activities violating our Security and Ecology Policy,” the operator stated in an official blog post last Friday. “We stand by this approach because fair play is fundamental to everything we do.”
This approach ensures that only players who provide convincing evidence of reform will be considered for reinstatement. The platform has been transparent that every application will be assessed on an individual basis, meaning that just because a player appeals does not guarantee a successful outcome.
The Olive Branch Initiative: A Controversial Yet Popular Program
The Olive Branch Initiative has been a talking point among the GGPoker community ever since it was first introduced. This is the third time that the initiative has been relaunched, and it offers a rare opportunity for those who were banned for various infractions—whether for collusion, cheating, or other violations—to redeem themselves. The previous editions of the initiative saw hundreds of players apply for reinstatement, with mixed results.
Players who take part in the program will need to offer more than just an apology. GGPoker is asking banned individuals to demonstrate meaningful change, which could include improvements in personal behavior, adherence to the platform’s policies, or a genuine reflection on the actions that led to the ban.

Why Does GGPoker Offer the Olive Branch Initiative?
One of the driving forces behind the Olive Branch Initiative is the belief in rehabilitation. For GGPoker, it’s not just about maintaining a clean platform; it’s about providing opportunities for redemption for those who have learned from their mistakes.
However, the initiative has sparked debate. While some players see it as a welcome opportunity for a second chance, others feel that the platform should remain firm in its policies and not allow banned players to return. Regardless of the varying opinions, GGPoker has continued to stand by the initiative, stating that they want to strike a balance between enforcing fair play and offering an opportunity for players to make amends.
GGPoker’s Zero-Tolerance Policy and Fair Play Commitment
GGPoker has been clear that the Olive Branch Initiative does not signal a shift away from its zero-tolerance policy. The platform continues to enforce strict rules around cheating, collusion, and other unfair practices.
“We are committed to providing a fair and secure environment for our players,” GGPoker wrote in its blog. “This initiative is not a loophole or a free pass—it’s a chance for those who have made genuine efforts to improve to rejoin the community.”
As part of its commitment to maintaining a transparent platform, GGPoker has also vowed to ensure that any reinstated players will be closely monitored to prevent future violations. The operator’s focus remains firmly on keeping the integrity of the game intact.

What’s Next for GGPoker?
Looking ahead, GGPoker is expected to continue refining its policies and features to ensure a safe and competitive environment for all players. While the Olive Branch Initiative offers one of the few opportunities for banned players to return, GGPoker is determined to ensure that only those who truly deserve a second chance will be welcomed back.
With the deadline to apply quickly approaching, affected players are urged to take their time and provide a thorough and honest explanation in their appeal. As with all decisions made by the platform, the final say on reinstatement rests with GGPoker’s team, who are committed to maintaining fairness in their evaluation process.
Also Read: The Future of Poker: What Legal Changes Are Coming to the U.S.?
FAQs
1. What is the Olive Branch Initiative?
The Olive Branch Initiative is a program by GGPoker that allows previously banned players to appeal their suspensions and potentially regain access to the platform.
2. When is the deadline to apply for the Olive Branch Initiative?
The deadline for players to submit their applications is October 1, 2025.
3. How will GGPoker evaluate my application for reinstatement?
GGPoker will assess each application on an individual basis, with a focus on whether players have demonstrated meaningful change in their behavior and have learned from their past mistakes.
4. Is there a guarantee that banned players will be reinstated?
No, GGPoker has made it clear that reinstatement is not guaranteed. Players must provide a convincing explanation and prove that they have reformed their behavior.
5. Can banned players apply if they were banned for cheating or collusion?
Yes, players banned for violations such as cheating or collusion are eligible to apply through the Olive Branch Initiative, but they will need to demonstrate genuine reform in order to be considered for reinstatement.
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