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Final Two Platinum Passes Dished Out Via PokerStars Podcast Contest; PSPC Starts Next Week 

Alex Irwin and Asif Warris became the final PokerStars Platinum Pass winners last week after answering a podcast trivia question correctly.

It must have been quite a phone call last week for Northern Ireland’s Alex Irwin and the United Kingdom’s Asif Warris. Simply answering the phone and giving a correct answer to a trivia question earned the pair a PokerStars Platinum Pass.

The prizes came via the Poker in the Ears podcast hosts James Hartigan and Joe Stapleton. The two called listeners to determine who would win the final two Platinum Passes for the PokerStars Players Championship (PSPC). The event is set for Jan. 30 – Feb. 3 at the Baha Mar Resort in the Bahamas.

The PSPC kicks off next week as part of the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure (PCA). Warris may have spoken for many winners when he learned he’d won.

“Oh my God, I love it,” he said. “I can’t believe this.”

Winning a PokerStars Platinum Pass via podcast

To have a shot at the Platinum Pass, players simply had to listen to a recent episode and register on the Stars Discord channel. Hartigan and Stapleton then randomly called those who registered.

Show listeners who answered a trivia question correctly won the pass. Irwin was the first lucky winner after correctly answering his PSPC quiz question. He was asked the number of players making the money in the first PSPC.

Irwin answered 181 entrants of the 1,039-player field cashed in the first edition of PSPC in 2019. That scored him a $25,000 buy-in and tournament package to the Bahamas next week.

Warris, known in the poker community as “The Poker Tourist,” was the next caller. He was asked the name of the other Platinum Pass winner that joined Ramon Colillas at the final table at the first PSPC. His correct answer of Mark Rivera rewarded Warris with a Platinum Pass.

Right place at the right time

Simply being by the phone paid off in a big way for these two winners. The first caller didn’t pick up for Hartigan and Stapleton. Irwin was then the second person called and claimed his Platinum Pass. That actually turned out to be his second pass after winning one for the first event in 2019.

The third person gave a wrong answer and Warris became the fourth player. The win also brought his second pass after also winning one in 2019. He knew the answer as soon as Hartigan read the choices and pumped his fists in celebration.

Warris has won numerous tournament packages and events at PokerStars, Stapleton noted.

“You are something special Asif,” the podcast host said. “Random draws and you just seem to connect.”

Irwin was equally enthusiastic about his win, celebrating on camera with some fist pumps and yelling.

He repeatedly said: “I can’t believe it.” He later added: “I’m speechless, I can’t wait to see you and shake your hand.”

Last of the Platinum Passes awarded

The two winners secured the last Platinum Passes up for grabs. In total, more than 400 players and poker fans secured the sought-after prizes. Stars values each pass at $30,000 and includes:

  • $25,000 tournament buy-in
  • Six nights of hotel accommodations for the winner and a guest in a five-star hotel
  • Airfare and airport transfers
  • $1,900 in expense money
  • Platinum Pass Winner experiences during the event

PokerScout will be on site next week throughout the PSPC. Stay tuned here for event updates, feature stories, and player interviews.

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PokerStars Adds BSOP Bahamas to PCA Schedule; Announces Platinum Pass Online Qualifiers

With the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure approaching in January, the site continues ramping up the action for players heading to the Bahamas. These series is planned for Jan. 22 – Feb. 3 with a wide variety of tournaments and events.

While much of the focus on the series may be on the $10,300 Main Event and $25,000 PokerStars Players Championship, the company announced a unique twist with the Brazilian Series of Poker (BSOP) serving as a part of the festivities.

The $1,100 BSOP Bahamas Main Event is set for Jan. 22 and runs for three with unlimited re-entries. Players can also qualify via online satellites running Dec. 4 – Jan. 15.

Grabbing a PokerStars BSOP Bahamas seat

Those looking for some poker fun in the Caribbean now have a shot to grab a BSOP Bahamas tournament package. Satellites and direct qualifiers are now underway, running on Wednesdays and Sundays.

The events feature a $162 buy-in with prizes worth $3.000 up for grabs. Tournament packages include the $1,100 buy-in and $1,900 toward travel expenses.

Sub-satellites are also available, starting at just $2.20, with a total of 21 packages guaranteed.

Online qualifiers continue for Platinum Passes

Beyond the BSOP addition, plenty of attention continues focusing on the PSPC in the Bahamas. Online poker players have a chance at even more qualifying opportunities for a Platinum Pass beginning this weekend.

The PSPC runs from Jan. 30 – Feb. 3 at the Baha Mar Resort in Nassau, Bahamas. A pass includes a complete tournament and travel package. Players winning a Platinum Pass earn:

  • Buy-in to the $25,000 PSPC
  • Six nights hotel accommodations for winner and a guest in a five-star hotel
  • Airport transfers
  • $1,900 in expense money
  • Platinum Pass winner experiences during the event

The online qualifiers guarantee one tournament package for every $30,000 in the prize pool. PSPC satellites run on the following dates:

  • Dec. 4
  • Dec. 11
  • Jan. 8
  • Jan. 15

For those already planning their trip to the Bahamas, here’s a look at the entire schedule.

PokerStars Caribbean Adventure & PSPC 2023

DateEventTourbamentBuy-inStarting chips
Jan. 22#3 (day 1)BSOP Bahamas Main Event - Unlimited Re-Entry$1,10030,000
Jan. 22#2PCA Main Event Qualifier - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$1,11010,000
Jan. 22#1 (day 1)PCA Super High Roller - Unlimited Re-Entry Day 1$100,000250,000
Jan. 22#4NL Hold'em - Unlimited Re-Entry$33030,000
Jan. 22#5PCA Main Event Qualifier - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$1,11010,000
Jan. 23#6 (1/A)PCA Main Event Flight A - Single Re-Entry Per Flight$10,30030,000
Jan. 23#7PCA Main Event Qualifier - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$1,11010,000
Jan. 23#1 (day 2)PCA Super High Roller - Unlimited Re-Entry Day 2$100,000250,000
Jan. 23#8 (day 1)Seniors (50 Years or Older) - Three Entries Maximum Day 1$55030,000
Jan. 23#3 (day 2)BSOP Bahamas Main Event - Unlimited Re-Entry$1,10030,000
Jan. 23#9 (day 1)NL Hold'em - Single Re-Entry Day 1$55030,000
Jan. 23#10PCA Main Event Qualifier - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$1,11010,000
Jan. 23#11Knockout ($10,000 Bounty) - Freezeout$20,00030,000
Jan. 24#12PCA Main Event Last Chance Qualifier - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$1,11010,000
Jan. 24#13PL Omaha - Three Entries Maximum$1,10050,000
Jan. 24#6 (1/B)PCA Main Event Flight B - Single Re-Entry Per Flight$10,30030,000
Jan. 24#3 (Final)BSOP Bahamas Main Event - Unlimited Re-Entry$1,10030,000
Jan. 24#146 Handed - Unlimited Re-Entry$50,000100,000
Jan. 24#1 (Final)PCA Super High Roller - Unlimited Re-Entry Final$100,000250,000
Jan. 24#8 (Final)Seniors (50 Years or Older) - Three Entries Maximum Final$55030,000
Jan. 24#9 (Final)NL Hold'em - Single Re-Entry Final$55030,000
Jan. 24#15Hyper Turbo Knockout ($1,000 Bounty) - Freezeout$2,10020,000
Jan. 25#6 (day 2)PCA Main Event Day 2$10,30030,000
Jan. 25#16Qualifier to #17 Deep Stack - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$25010,000
Jan. 25#17 (day 1)Deep Stack - Single Re-Entry Day 1$2,20050,000
Jan. 25#18Step Qualifier to #46 - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$30010,000
Jan. 25#19 (day 1)7 Handed - Unlimited Re-Entry Day 1$50,000150,000
Jan. 25#20Hyper Turbo Knockout ($500 Bounty) - Freezeout$1,05020,000
Jan. 26#21Qualifier to #23 PCA Mystery Bounty - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$34010,000
Jan. 26#6 (day 3)PCA Main Event Day 3$10,30030,000
Jan. 26#17 (Final)Deep Stack - Single Re-Entry$2,20050,000
Jan. 26#228-Game - Three Entries Maximum$55050,000
Jan. 26#19 (Final)7 Handed - Unlimited Re-Entry Final$50,000150,000
Jan. 26#23 (day 1)PCA Mystery Bounty ($1,000 Mystery Bounty) - Unlimited Re-Entry$3,00030,000
Jan. 26#24Step Qualifier to #46 - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$30010,000
Jan. 26#25 (day 1)8 Handed - Unlimited Re-Entry Day 1$50,000150,000
Jan. 26#26NL Hold'em - Unlimited Re-Entry$33030,000
Jan. 27#200Crazy Pineapple Flip - Qualify to Step 1A ($300)$301
Jan. 27#6 (day 4)PCA Main Event Day 4$10,30030,000
Jan. 27#23 (day 2)PCA Mystery Bounty ($1,000 Mystery Bounty) - Unlimited Re-Entry$3,00030,000
Jan. 27#27PLO Hi/Lo - Three Entries Maximum$55050,000
Jan. 27#28Step Qualifier to #46 - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$30010,000
Jan. 27#25 (Final)8 Handed - Unlimited Re-Entry Final$50,000150,000
Jan. 27#201Crazy Pineapple Flip - Qualify to Step 1B ($600)$601
Jan. 27#29 (day 1)Deep Stack - Single Re-Entry Day 1$1,10050,000
Jan. 27#30Step Qualifier to #46 - 'Win Your Seat @ 50,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Freezeout$60010,000
Jan. 27#31 (day 1)8 Handed - Unlimited Re-Entry Day 1$25,000150,000
Jan. 27#32Step 2 - Qualify to PSPC Main Event with 100,000 chips - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$2,70010,000
Jan. 28#202Crazy Pineapple Flip - Qualify to Step 1A ($300)$301
Jan. 28#23 (Final)PCA Mystery Bounty ($1,000 Mystery Bounty) - Unlimited Re-Entry$3,00030,000
Jan. 28#6 (day 5)PCA Main Event Day 5$10,30030,000
Jan. 28#29 (Final)Deep Stack - Single Re-Entry$1,10050,000
Jan. 28#33 (day 1)PCA Pot Limit Omaha High Roller - Single Re-Entry Day 1$25,00050,000
Jan. 28#34Step Qualifier to #46 - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$30010,000
Jan. 28#31 (Final)8 Handed - Unlimited Re-Entry Final$25,000150,000
Jan. 28#203Crazy Pineapple Flip - Qualify to Step 1B ($600)$601
Jan. 28#36 (day 1)H-O-R-S-E - Three Entries Maximum Day 1$1,10050,000
Jan. 28#35 (day 1)NL Hold'em - Freezeout Day 1$1,10030,000
Jan. 28#38 (day 1)PSPC Warm Up! - Unlimited Re-Entry Day 1$10,20060,000
Jan. 28#37Step Qualifier to #46 - 'Win Your Seat @ 50,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Freezeout$60010,000
Jan. 28#39Step 2 - Qualify to PSPC Main Event with 100,000 chips - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$2,70010,000
Jan. 29#204Crazy Pineapple Flip - Qualify to Step 1A ($300)$301
Jan. 29#40Women's - Three Entries Maximum$33030,000
Jan. 29#6 (Final)PCA Main Event Final Day$10,30030,000
Jan. 29#38 (Final)PSPC Warm Up! - Unlimited Re-Entry Final$10,20060,000
Jan. 29#36 (Final)H-O-R-S-E - Three Entries Maximum Final$1,10050,000
Jan. 29#35 (Final)NL Hold'em - Freezeout Final$1,10030,000
Jan. 29#41Step Qualifier to #46 - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$30010,000
Jan. 29#33 (Final)PCA Pot Limit Omaha High Roller - Single Re-Entry Final$25,00050,000
Jan. 29#205Crazy Pineapple Flip - Qualify to Step 1B ($600)$601
Jan. 29#42Mystery Bounty ($5,000 Mystery Bounty) - Single Re-Entry$10,200100,000
Jan. 29#44NL Hold'em - Unlimited Re-Entry$33030,000
Jan. 29#45Knockout ($10,000 Bounty) - Freezeout$20,00030,000
Jan. 29#46Qualifier to PSPC Main Event - Platinum Pass Added - Freezeout$2,70010,000
Jan. 30#47Qualifier to PSPC Main Event - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$2,70010,000
Jan. 30#48 (day 1)PokerStars Players No Limit Hold’em Championship - Freezeout Day 1$25,00060,000
Jan. 30#49Hyper Turbo Knockout ($1,000 Bounty) - Freezeout$2,10020,000
Jan. 31#50Qualifier to #51 Deep Stack - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$37010,000
Jan. 31#48 (day 2)PokerStars Players No Limit Hold’em Championship - Freezeout Day 2$25,00060,000
Jan. 31#51 (day 1)Deep Stack - Single Re-Entry Day 1$3,30050,000
Jan. 31#52NL Hold'em - Unlimited Re-Entry$33030,000
Jan. 31#53 (day 1)Super High Roller $250,000 - Unlimited Re-Entry Day 1$250,000250,000
Jan. 31#54Qualifier to #59 PCA High Roller - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$2,70010,000
Feb. 1#58H-O-R-S-E - Three Entries Maximum$55050,000
Feb. 1#56 (1/A)Mystery Bounty Flight A ($250 Mystery Bounty) - Unlimited Re-Entry$55030,000
Feb. 1#55Qualifier to #56 Mystery Bounty - 'Win Your Seat @ 50,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Freezeout$12510,000
Feb. 1#57Qualifier to #60 Deep Stack - 'Win Your Seat @ 100,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Unlimited Re-Entry$25010,000
Feb. 1#48 (day 3)PokerStars Players No Limit Hold’em Championship - Freezeout Day 3$25,00060,000
Feb. 1#51 (Final)Deep Stack - Single Re-Entry$3,30050,000
Feb. 1#60 (day 1)Deep Stack - Single Re-Entry Day 1$2,20050,000
Feb. 1#59 (day 1)PCA High Roller - Single Re-Entry Day 1$25,00050,000
Feb. 1#53 (day 2)Super High Roller $250,000 - Unlimited Re-Entry Day 2$250,000250,000
Feb. 1#56 (1/B)Mystery Bounty Flight B ($250 Mystery Bounty) - Unlimited Re-Entry$55030,000
Feb. 1#61Hyper Turbo Knockout ($500 Bounty) - Freezeout$1,05020,000
Feb. 2#63PL Omaha - Three Entries Maximum$33050,000
Feb. 2#62Qualifier to #56 Mystery Bounty - 'Win Your Seat @ 50,000 chips' - SEAT ONLY - Freezeout$12510,000
Feb. 2#60 (Final)Deep Stack - Single Re-Entry$2,20050,000
Feb. 2#56 (1/C)Mystery Bounty Flight C ($250 Mystery Bounty) - Unlimited Re-Entry$55030,000
Feb. 2#48 (day 4)PokerStars Players No Limit Hold’em Championship - Freezeout Day 4$25,00060,000
Feb. 2#53 (Final)Super High Roller $250,000 - Unlimited Re-Entry Final$250,000250,000
Feb. 2#64 (day 1)NL Hold'em - Freezeout Day 1$1,10030,000
Feb. 2#59 (day 2)PCA High Roller - Single Re-Entry Day 2$25,00050,000
Feb. 2#56 (1/D)Mystery Bounty Flight D ($250 Mystery Bounty) - Unlimited Re-Entry$55030,000
Feb. 2#66 (day 1)7 Handed - Unlimited Re-Entry Day 1$100,000150,000
Feb. 2#65Hyper Turbo - Freezeout$55020,000
Feb. 3#67NL Hold'em - Unlimited Re-Entry$33030,000
Feb. 3#64 (Final)NL Hold'em - Freezeout Final$1,10030,000
Feb. 3#56 (Final)Mystery Bounty ($250 Mystery Bounty) - Unlimited Re-Entry$55030,000
Feb. 3#66 (Final)7 Handed - Unlimited Re-Entry Final$100,000150,000
Feb. 3#59 (Final)PCA High Roller - Single Re-Entry Final$25,00050,000
Feb. 3#48 (Final)PokerStars Players No Limit Hold’em Championship - Freezeout Final$25,00060,000
Feb. 3#68NL Hold'em - Unlimited Re-Entry$3,10050,000
Feb. 3#696 Handed - Unlimited Re-Entry$10,15050,000
Feb. 3#70Last Chance Super Hyper Turbo - Freezeout$1,05050,000

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PokerStars Unveils new Chest & Ladders, Freeroll Options to Win Platinum Passes, Cash Prizes

With two months until the PokerStars Players Championship in the Bahamas, the site has announced even Platinum Pass opportunities.

With just over two months until the PokerStars Players Championship (PSPC) gets underway in the Bahamas, the online poker site has announced even more opportunities to win a Platinum Pass on Monday.

PokerStars is offering even more opportunities for players to earn a seat into the $25,000 buy-in event and a complete travel package.

Through Dec. 11, players can look for a special edition of Chests & Ladders. The promotion offers online poker players the chance to win one of the biggest prizes in the game.

How to win a PokerStars Platinum Pass

Those looking to cash in for some big prizes have a few options at PokerStars. Some of the  Chests & Ladders rewards offered include seven Platinum Passes for the PSPC, which is set for Jan. 30 – Feb. 3 at the Baha Mar Resort in Nassau.

Players on the .COM platform have a chance to win a share of over $500,000 in rewards. That includes four Platinum Passes up for grabs, valued at $30,000 each. Each pass includes:

  • $25,000 PSPC buy-in
  • six nights hotel accommodations for each winner and a guest in a five-star hotel
  • flights and airport transfers
  • $1,900 in spending money
  • unique Platinum Pass winner experiences during the event

Players in France and Spain are also in luck, with €150,000 in rewards available as well as three Platinum Passes. As part of the promotion, players will find a number of PSPC Chests. Each contains an instant reward, which could be a Platinum Pass.

Upon completing the game board, an additional PSPC Chest is dropped. This holds an even bigger instant reward, which also provides a second opportunity for a pass.

More details on  Chests & Ladders promotion 

To get involved, players must be a PokerStars Rewards member. Competitors must opt in to the promotion via the “Challenges” window in their accounts.

Players can then take part in real money games to complete progress bars. Eventually players will see a Chest dropped, containing a dice roll for Chests & Ladders. Here’s a look at the next steps in the process:

  • Progress along the number of squares that is shown on the dice.
  • Land on a ladder enabling a player to climb upwards, making it to the end of the board faster.
  • Land on a PSPC Chest to receive an instant personalized reward. This is based on a player’s activity and could include cash, tournament tickets, or free spins. Platinum Passes are also in the mix here as well.
  • Make it to square 49 or beyond to receive a final PSPC Chest. This contains bigger rewards and another chance to win a pass. Two are available on the international .COM platform and one for the France/Spain platform.

Even more chances for a Platinum Pass 

All players who don’t win Platinum Pass through the above options still have a chance. These users are entered into the Chests & Ladders Platinum Pass Edition Freeroll.

One final prize is on the line. Any of those Platinum Passes not previously awarded will also become available as well.

The freeroll is set for Dec. 13 with at least $80,000 in guaranteed prices for .COM players. Players in France and Spain will find €50,000 up for grabs. Plenty of action and free cash await players in the coming weeks at PokerStars.

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More PokerStars Platinum Pass Events Unveiled; France, Romania, Brazil Road to PSPC in the Works

The Platinum Pass parade continues for PokerStars and the site announced plans for even more chances to win on Thursday.

The Platinum Pass parade continues for PokerStars and the site announced plans for even more chances to win on Thursday. As the PokerStars Players Championship (PSPC) approaches, the company revealed three more live events with coveted $30,000 passes up for grabs.

October and November offer new opportunities for players in France, Romania, and Brazil. A Platinum Pass offers winners a complete travel package for the PSPC.

The $25,000 buy-in event is planned for the Bahamas in January as part of the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure. Stars also announced opportunities for online poker players to win their way into the new PSPC events.

A look at the new PokerStars Road to PSPC Platinum Pass events

Players looking to grab a Platinum Pass have a few events to watch out for in Europe and South America. The first event is set for Oct. 10-16 at the Poker Room Bucharest in Romania.

The €400 Main Event also runs Oct. 12-16, with €150,000 guaranteed with a pass on the line as well. The schedule also features numerous side events planned.

PokerStars then heads to Club Circus Paris for the final Road to PSPC event in France. The tournament runs from Nov. 8-13 with the €400 Main Event also on those dates. Other side events are also planned.

The Platinum Pass action then heads to the land of samba and sun for the Brazilian Series of Poker, which runs Nov. 14-26 in São Paulo. The R$1,000 Road to PSPC BSOP Millions runs Nov. 14-17 with a Mystery Bounty format.

A Platinum Pass will be added to the prize pool and hidden in one of the envelopes awarded to players who eliminate another player. The tournament also includes a R$2 million ($382,000) guarantee.

Online satellite opportunities

PokerStars is also offering online players a shot at playing in these events at a lower price point. Players Choice satellites are running nightly on the .COM, .EU, French, and Spanish platforms.

Italian players will find these running three times per week as well. Players in Latin America can jump in Road to PSPC BSOP Millions standalone satellites, starting at just $11.

More Platinum Passes awarded

Stars has run several live events for Platinum Passes throughout the year. Recent events played out in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Spain. More international events are planned in the coming months too.

The site also recently awarded Italy’s Giada Fang with a pass after she won a single-table as part of an International Women’s Day promotion.

PokerStars USA also recently outlined opportunities for online players in that country as well. The platform is available in the states of Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New Jersey.

Here’s a complete look at all upcoming Road to PSPC live tournaments.

PokerStars Road to PSPC Tour 2022

DateLocationBuy-inGuaranteeMain Event
Oct. 10-16Bucharest, Romania€400€150,000Oct. 12-16
Nov. 8-13Paris, France€400Nov. 8-13
Nov. 14-26Sao Paulo, Brazil
(Brazilian Series of Poker )		R$1,000R$2,000,000Nov. 14-17
Nov. 27- Dec. 4Namur, Belgium€400Nov. 27- Dec. 4

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PokerStars Outlines New Live Events Including Updates on PPC, Platinum Passes; PCA Returns

PokerStars announced some added live stops on Friday as well as details on the second PokerStars Players Championship.

Live poker is back and PokerStars announced some major expansion of the company’s upcoming schedule on Friday. That includes details on the second PokerStars Players Championship (PSPC), which returns to the Bahamas in January at the Baha Mar resort.

The announcement follows a successful Prague stop on the European Poker Tour (EPT). More stop on that tour is now on the way as well as more regional tour events.

“We have missed our live events as much as our players, so it is our true pleasure to announce the PokerStars Players Championship will take place at Baha Mar in January,”  Stars managing director and commercial officer Severin Rasset said in a news release.

“Beautiful location, hundreds of qualifiers, with millions to win. If there is one tournament to choose for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it will be the PSPC. We will provide more details soon on how to get your hands on a Platinum Pass – stay tuned!”

PSPC, Platinum Passes return to PokerStars

News of the PSC’s return may be the biggest part of Friday’s announcement. Stars ran the first event in 2019, giving away hundreds of Platinum Passes along the way.

These entitled winners to a $30,000 travel package that included a $25,000 buy-in for the event.

The tournament saw 1,039 entries for a $26.5 million prize pool. Spain’s Ramon Colillas cashed in on a Platinum Pass and won the tournament for $5.1 million.

https://twitter.com/PokerStars/status/1512369765699895303?s=20&t=cd44tEjMrRRNPPQSMV0UWg

The COVID pandemic delayed the second event, which was originally planned for Barcelona. PokerStars now moves that event back to the Bahamas with the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure (PCA) also returning.

The PCA heads to the Bahamas from Jan. 22 – Feb. 3 at the new location of the Baha Mar. The PSPC will again be part of the action, running Jan. 30 – Feb. 3.

As in the run up to the first PSPC, the company plans on handing out more Platinum Passes to online poker players and poker fans around the world.

“Players can come together for this unique event,” PokerStars notes, “to enjoy the winter sunshine and kick off 2023 at what PokerStars plans to be an unforgettable celebration and an even bigger and better PSPC, with hundreds of Platinum Pass winners set to attend.”

More PokerStars EPT events on tap

PokerStars also outlined more events in the announcement including the EPT heading to Barcelona and Prague again this year. EPT Barcelona runs Aug. 8-21 at the Casino Barcelona.

The series features plenty of tournaments to choose from including a €1,100 ESPT event and €5,300 Main Event.

Additionally, EPT Prague plays out Dec. 7-18 at King’s Casino in Czech Republic. Players can expect a full slate of tournaments including a €5,300 Main Event from Dec. 12-18.

A Eureka Tour €1,100 Main Event is also planned for Dec. 8-12. Players can win their way to these events via online qualifiers. Satellites are running for free on the site or jump in a qualifier for as little as €1.10. These are expected to start soon.

Regional tour action ramping up; Dublin, Malta events planned

PokerStars also plans the return of some of its regional tours and offered more details on Friday.

After six years, PokerStars UKIPT (United Kingdom and Ireland Poker Tour) returns to Dublin from May 16-22 at the Bonnington Hotel. Online satellites for these events start today for as little as €1.10.

Also, for the first time PokerStars will sponsor a Summer Poker Festival running from June 18-26 in Malta. The series’ Main Event will be a joint UKIPT and ESPT event. The company plans to release more online satellite information for these series soon. 

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Complete Schedule Released for PokerStars Big 20 Birthday Bash; Huge Prizes on the Line

PokerStars is celebrating its 20th anniversary with the new Big 20 Rewind from Nov. 14 – Dec. 4 with $5.5 million guaranteed and some huge prizes.

PokerStars is celebrating its 20th anniversary with the new Big 20 Rewind. The series runs Nov. 14 – Dec. 4 with $5.5 million guaranteed and promises some unique events.

The celebration features buy-ins for all bankrolls with events meant to represent a major moment in PokerStars history. The site is also putting some major extra prizes on the line as well. Some of that includes online tournament tickets, Platinum Passes, trips around the world, and more.

Inside the PokerStars Big 20 Rewind schedule

With huge moments through the years, both live and online, PokerStars made plenty of poker history in its 20 years. Players jumping in the Big 20 action will find plenty of interesting events.

The schedule offers a complete PokerStars retrospective, highlighted by the $55 Big 20 Finale. The three day event runs Dec. 5-7 and comes with a $5 million guarantee. Here’s a look at the complete series and prizes available.

Nov. 14: 2001 – Year of PokerStars

  • Buy-in: $11
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $100,000
  • Prize: SLAM package (SCOOP & WCOOP Main Event buy-ins), EPT package, PSPC Platinum Pass

Nov. 16: 2002 – Year of WCOOP

  • Buy-in: $1,050
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $250,000
  • Prize: Luxury trip around the world

Nov. 17: 2003 – Year of Moneymaker

  • Buy-in: $86
  • Start time: 13:05 ET
  • Guarantee: $125,000
  • Prize: 20th Anniversary “PokerStars Passport” including $10,000 in buy-ins for live events in 2022

Nov. 18: 2004 – Year of the EPT

  • Buy-in: $1,050
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $250,000
  • Prize: 20th Anniversary trophy in the style of the original EPT, plus an EPT package

Nov. 19: 2005 – Year of the PCA

  • Buy-in: $109
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $100,000
  • Prize: Luxury trip to the Bahamas

PokerStars is celebrating its 20th anniversary with the special Big 20 Rewind series, running Nov. 14 to Dec. 4 with 20 nostalgic tournaments.

Nov. 21: 2006 – Year of the Sunday Million

  • Buy-in: $215
  • Start time: $215 (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $1,000,000
  • Prize: Tickets to a major sports event final held on a Sunday

Nov. 22: 2007 – Year of EPT Live

  • Buy-in: Freeroll
  • Start time: 14:05 ET
  • Guarantee: $20,000
  • Prize: Streaming package (gaming station, chair, headset, webcam)

Nov.  22: 2008 – Year of the Turbo Takedown

  • Buy-in: $30
  • Start time: 14:30 ET
  • Guarantee: $100,000
  • Prize: An electric car valued up to $100,000

Nov. 23: 2009 – Year of SCOOP

  • Buy-in: $109
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $300,000
  • Prize: 20th anniversary luxury watches for all three winners

Nov. 23: 2009 – Year of SCOOP

  • Buy-in: $1,050
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $700,000
  • Prize: 20th anniversary luxury watches for all three winners

Nov. 23: 2009 – Year of SCOOP

  • Buy-in: $10,300
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $750,000
  • Prize: 20th Anniversary luxury watches for all three winners

Nov. 24: 2010 – Year of the Big Game

  • Buy-in: $55
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $250,000
  • Prize: State-of-the-art TV and surround sound system

Nov. 25: 2011 – Year of Home Games

  • Buy-in: $11
  • Start time: 13:05 ET
  • Guarantee: $100,00
  • Prize: Home Game package with table and poker set including the use of a dealer and chef for one night

Nov. 26: 2012 – Year of Zoom

  • Buy-in: $11
  • Start time: 13:05 ET
  • Guarantee: $125,000
  • Prize: Tickets to the Monte Carlo Grand Prix plus an EPT package

Nov. 27: 2013 – Year of the PKO

  • Buy-in: $22
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $225,000
  • Prize: UFC tickets

Nov. 28: 2014 – Year of Spin & Go

  • Buy-in: $10
  • Start time: 13:05 ET
  • Guarantee: $150,000
  • Prize: Dinner at a Michelin three-star restaurant for the winner and two friends with a value of up to $5,000

Nov. 29: 2015 – Year of Sports & Casino

  • Buy-in: $55
  • Start time: 13:05 ET
  • Guarantee: $200,000
  • Prize: Trip to Las Vegas

Nov. 30: 2016 – Year of the USA

  • Buy-in: $200
  • Start time: 13:05 ET
  • Guarantee: $200,000
  • Prize: Trip to New York

Dec. 1: 2017 – Year of Twitch

  • Buy-in: $11
  • Start time: 13:05 ET
  • Guarantee: $100,000
  • Prize: Trip to TwitchCon in Amsterdam

Dec. 2: 2018 – Year of the Platinum Pass

  • Buy-in: $5
  • Start time: 13:05 ET
  • Guarantee: $50,000
  • Prize: $10,000 in tickets to Year of the PSPC tournament for top finishers

Dec. 3: 2019 – Year of the PSPC

  • Buy-in: $25
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $150,000
  • Prize: Platinum Pass for PSPC 2022

Dec. 4: 2020 – Year of the Arena

  • Buy-in: $5,200
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (two-day event)
  • Guarantee: $300,000
  • Prize: VIP Live Foo Fighters arena concert experience

Dec. 5: The Big 20 Finale

  • Buy-in: $55
  • Start time: 13:05 ET (three day event ends on Tue 7 December)
  • Guarantee: $5 million

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PokerStars Forced to Delay Players Championship, Pass Winners in Waiting Game

The PokerStars Players No Limit Hold’em Championship (PSPC) has been cancelled this year, the company announced this week.

The PokerStars Players No Limit Hold’em Championship (PSPC) has been cancelled this year, the company announced this week. The event was set for August at Casino Barcelona in Spain.

This would have been the second PSPC after PokerStars ran the event in the Bahamas in 2019.

“We are excitedly looking ahead to a later date when we can truly celebrate being back with our community with a bang when the time is right,” the company noted in a news release.

PokerStars spectacular on hold with hopes to plan event the future

The first PSPC became the biggest $25,000 buy-in poker tournament in history. PokerStars offered Platinum Passes throughout 2018 for winners online, in small buy-in live events as part of the Chris Moneymaker Tour, and social media contests.

The tournament awarded more than $26.4 million to 181 players with 43 of those being Platinum Pass winners. The final table produced six players taking home scores of more than $1 million.

Spain’s Ramon Colillas entered the event as a Platinum Pass winner and topped the massive field for $5.1 million. The unique event brought together an interesting mix of pros and amateurs.

Platinum Pass winners not only secured a buy-in but also an all-expenses paid trip to the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.

COVID cancels PokerStars PSPC again

PokerStars hoped to relive some of the event’s excitement in 2020. The Coronavirus pandemic, however, cut those plans short.

This year’s cancellation means players will have to wait at least another year. The company hasn’t offered an alternative date but promised to offer regular updates.

“We know that this further news will come as a disappointment to many hoping the PSPC would take place this year,” the company said, “but our priority is the safety and good health of all our players and staff, as well as the communities that host such large events.”

This postponement won’t affect any players who have already won Platinum Passes. In total, PokerStars has already awarded passes to 400 players.

The company promises more promotions in the future awarding more.

“We look forward to highlighting our Platinum Pass winners, sharing their amazing stories and creating that brilliant community of winners that we had in our inaugural event,” PokerStars noted.

“Our Platinum Pass winners are a very special community and we will continue to plan activities and surprises in the run-up to the event, albeit with a longer than expected lead time. We promise it will be worth the wait.”

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PokerStars Offers Live Events, Platinum Passes, Big Online Action in Coming Months

The Platinum Pass parade continues for PokerStars and the site announced plans for even more chances to win on Thursday.

From live events to a huge Carnaval Series, PokerStars has plenty of events and online opportunities for players over the next few weeks. That includes numerous opportunities to win a Platinum Pass.

The EPT Sochi also approaches as well as the 14th anniversary of the Sunday Million. There will also be numerous major online tournaments in the coming months. Here’s a look at what to expect from PokerStars.

 

Southern Europe ready to party with massive PokerStars Carnaval series

Online players in southern Europe are in store for more than two weeks of online poker action Feb. 16 to March 2. The PokerStars Carnaval Series features a guaranteed prize pool of more than €8 million. The 166-event schedule will be for for players in France, Spain, and Portugal.

The €250 buy-in Main Event on March 1 features a €500,000 guarantee. PokerStars is offering players some nice qualifying options:

  • Depositor Freeroll – €25,000 worth of Main Event tickets will be awarded in a special freeroll on Feb. 29. Players must make a deposit of €25 from Feb. 16-29.
  • Spin & Go’s – €12.50 Spin & Go’s begin running Feb. 16 awarding €250 Main Event tickets.

The inaugural Carnaval Series in 2019 drew more than 34,500 players and a €11.2 million prize pool.

At the same time, Italian players can jump in their own “Carnival Series” from Feb. 16 to March 2. The festivities feature €5 million guaranteed with 110 events. The €250 buy-in Main Event on March 1 features a €400,000 guarantee. That should have plenty of players in a festive spirit.

Platinum Passes on the line in Germany

Poker players in Germany have the chance to play for a Platinum Pass on their home turf March 10-15. The Road to PSPC: Hamburg will be held at Casino Schenefeld.

In addition to the first-place prize money, the winner of the €200 Main Event takes home a Platinum Pass. As many poker players know, that means a free trip and €22,500 entry into the  PokerStars Players No Limit Championship (PSPC) in Barcelona Aug. 20-24.

Platinum Pass packages are valued at €26,000 and also include six nights’ luxury hotel accommodation, flights, and other travel expenses for the winner and guest.

Players can earn entry online for free through Freebuy satellites awarding tickets to even bigger qualifying tournaments. Online satellites are underway and run through March 8. Players can win complete tournament packages that include the Main Event entry and travel expenses.

Road to PSPC tournaments have been awarding Platinum Passes to players throughout the United Kingdom, France, and Spain since last year. The low buy-ins and fun atmosphere have make them popular events.

PokerStars Platinum Madness Challenge continues with 21 passes awarded

The PokerStars 21-day Platinum Madness Challenge continues through March 1. The promotion will award 21 Platinum Passes and a total of more than $1 million in prizes. 

The challenge is available across .com markets. Separate challenges are also offering €500,000 in prizes including 21 Platinum Passes on the .fr and .es sites.

 Players who like challenges and board games are in for a treat with the new promotion. Here’s how players can get in the action:

  • Opt-in via the Challenges Window.
  • Play real money games and earn Stars Rewards Chests containing dice rolls.
  • Roll the dice to move that number of spaces across the playing board and land on PSPC Chests to earn prizes. That includes a chance to win a Platinum Pass. Land on a ladder to climb upward and make it to the end of the board faster.
  • Complete the board and win additional prizes and more chances for a Platinum Pass.

Those making it all the way to Square 49 receive an additional PSPC Chest. This will contain a shot at one of five Platinum Passes and a larger reward than other PSPC Chests.

Players reaching the final square on the board also receive a ticket to the Last Chance Freeroll on March 2. The event offers the last pass opportunity as part of Platinum Madness.

 

PokerStars, EPT heading to Sochi with numerous online qualifiers

Hundreds of players will head to Russia’s Casino Sochi for one of PokerStars’ flagship events of 2020, EPT Sochi. The event is set for March 20-29 and special Freebuy feeder tournaments are already underway online.

These events have unlimited $0.11 rebuys, run every weekend, and each award one seat to the $215 qualifier. Those then take place on Sundays and guarantee up to eight Main Event seats.

PokerStars is also giving away EPT Sochi Main Event packages. These include accommodations in a five-star hotel, expenses, and the $4,500 Main Event buy-in. Players can take their shot in a $5 Spin & Go.

EPT Sochi features 25 events with the Main Event set for March 24-29. A Platinum Pass is also up for grabs for those who qualify for the Main Event online.

There is also plenty for players to enjoy off the felt in the mountain ski resort of Krasnaya Polyana. PokerStars will host the Bowling Cup on March 26 and Karaoke Battle on March 27.

Get online now for a chance at some big money and big fun at this EPT prestigious event.

Sunday Million anniversary celebration features $12.5 million guaranteed

PokerStars’ celebrates the 14th anniversary of the Sunday Million tournament in style on March 22. The $215 event features $12.5 million guaranteed, the site’s biggest guarantee and prize pool ever for a single event.

Players can win their way into this iconic tournament via satellites starting at less than $1. There will also be a late-registration period of 24 hours, giving players extra time to sign up.

The Sunday Million tournament launched on March 6, 2006. It remains the world’s biggest $1 million guaranteed weekly poker tournament.

The first tournament attracted 5,893 players, a total prize pool of $1.2 million. Canadian player “aaaaaaaa” won that event for $173,843. Another player will make some more Sunday Million history when this event concludes..

Click here for a complete review of PokerStars including the exclusive opportunity to earn $30 in Free Play and a 100% Deposit Match up to $600.