EPT Monte-Carlo 2026 | April 30 - May 10 | Sporting Monte-Carlo

The European Poker Tour (EPT) returns to the glittering shores of the French Riviera for EPT Monte-Carlo 2026, taking place from April 30 to May 10, 2026. Hosted at the legendary Sporting Monte-Carlo , this festival remains the crown jewel of European poker, combining high-stakes action with unparalleled luxury.

Known for its massive prize pools and elite fields, the 2026 edition features a packed schedule including the €5,300 EPT Main Event, the €100,000 Super High Roller, and the accessible PokerStars Open. Whether you are chasing the prestigious Golden Shard trophy or simply soaking in the opulent atmosphere of Monaco, this guide provides everything you need to plan your trip.

EPT Monte-Carlo 2026 Highlighted Events

The schedule for EPT Monte-Carlo is always packed with exciting tournaments, but a few key events stand out as the biggest draws. From the prestigious Main Event to the high-stakes Super High Roller, these are the dates every player needs to mark in their calendar. Below is a list of the major tournaments you won’t want to miss.

• PokerStars Open Main Event (€1,650): April 30 – May 4, 2026
• PokerStars Open Cup (€825): May 2-3, 2026
• PokerStars Open High Roller (€2,700): May 3-4, 2026
• EPT Super High Roller (€100,000): May 3-5, 2026
• EPT Main Event (€5,300): May 4-10, 2026
• EPT Mystery Bounty (€3,250): May 6-8, 2026
• EPT High Roller (€10,300): May 8-10, 2026

Full Tournament Schedule

The 2026 festival promises action for every bankroll, from the PokerStars Open to the nosebleed High Rollers . The schedule is packed with a variety of formats including the classic Texas Hold’em freezeouts and action-heavy Pot Limit Omaha events.

Satellites & Qualification

Online qualifiers for EPT Monte-Carlo are typically available exclusively on PokerStars. Players can win full packages (including buy-in, accommodation, and travel expenses) or seat-only prizes for a fraction of the cost. Satellites run daily in the months leading up to the event, often starting from as little as a few Euros or via the “Power Path” system. Live satellites will also be running at the venue on the days leading up to the Main Event.

Live Stream & Coverage

For poker fans unable to attend in person, following the action is easier than ever thanks to extensive media coverage. The European Poker Tour is renowned for its high-quality broadcasts, bringing the excitement of the tables directly to screens around the world. Whether through live streams or social media updates, you can stay connected to every major hand.

Official Event Stream

PokerStars Live usually provides broadcast-quality coverage of the EPT Monte-Carlo. You can expect cards-up coverage with commentary for the €100,000 Super High Roller final table and the deep stages of the €5,300 Main Event (Days 2-6).

Poker & Travel Guide

Monaco is the second-smallest independent state in the world, synonymous with wealth, luxury, and history. Located on the French Riviera, it offers mild spring weather, stunning Mediterranean views, and world-class dining. For poker players, it is a bucket-list destination where the game’s elite gather annually at the Salle des Etoiles.

Official Poker Guide (Rules & Structures)

Before sitting down at the tables, it is essential to be familiar with the specific rules and structures used in Monte-Carlo. While standard EPT rules apply, there are local nuances regarding currency and taxation that players should be aware of. The following details outline the key logistical aspects of playing in Monaco.

• Currency: All buy-ins and payouts are in Euros (€).
• Format: EPT events typically use a Big Blind Ante structure.
• Tax: Monaco does not withhold tax on gambling winnings for players, but you should check the tax laws of your country of residence.

Registration & Buy-in Information

To ensure a smooth start to your tournament experience, the EPT offers multiple ways to register and pay for your seat. Whether you prefer using cash, casino chips, or your online PokerStars account, the process is designed to be as convenient as possible. Here is a breakdown of the accepted payment methods and entry requirements.

• Payment Methods: Buy-ins are accepted in Cash (EUR), Casino Chips, or via Wire Transfer (requires prior arrangement with the casino). Players with a PokerStars account (COM/EU/UK/FR) can often buy in directly using their online balance via the “Luxon Pay” or direct account transfer options available at the registration desk.
• ID Requirements: A valid Passport or National ID Card is strictly required for entry.
• Age Limit: You must be 18 years or older to enter the casino and participate in the tournament. Citizens of Monaco are not permitted to play.

Destination Guide & Must See

While the poker action is the main attraction, a trip to Monte-Carlo offers much more than just time at the tables. The principality is rich in culture, history, and stunning scenery, making it the perfect place to explore during your downtime. We have curated a list of must-visit locations to help you make the most of your stay.

• Casino Square (Place du Casino): The iconic heart of Monte-Carlo, surrounded by Belle Époque architecture and luxury cars. A perfect photo op.
• Oceanographic Museum: Built into the cliffside, this world-renowned museum offers stunning aquariums and sea views.
• Prince’s Palace: The official residence of the Grimaldi family. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony daily at 11:55 AM.
• F1 Grand Prix Track: Walk the famous streets that form the Formula 1 circuit, including the Fairmont Hairpin and the Tunnel.

Travel Essentials

Getting to Monte-Carlo is easier than you might think, despite the lack of an airport within the principality.

• By Air: The nearest international hub is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) in France , located approximately 22km (14 miles) away.
• Airport Transfers:
  • Helicopter (Recommended): For a breathtaking arrival, take a helicopter transfer from Nice to Monaco. It takes just 7 minutes and offers stunning views of the Riviera. Transfers leave every 30 minutes. To book your transfer, visit PokerStars Travel or call +34 93 325 6777. You can also book directly via the BLADE website.
  • Bus: The Rapides Côte D’Azur buses (Line 80) run regularly from Nice Airport terminals to Monte-Carlo.
  • Taxi/Car: A taxi takes about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
• By Train: The Monaco-Monte-Carlo station is well connected. The high-speed TGV from Paris takes under 7 hours. Local trains from Nice run frequently along the coast.

Past Results & Champions

EPT Monte-Carlo has a rich history of crowning elite champions, with each festival attracting the biggest names in poker to the Salle des Etoiles. The 2025 edition continued this tradition, delivering high-stakes action and record-breaking prize pools on the French Riviera.

Previous Festival Highlights

The 2025 edition of EPT Monte-Carlo was a record-breaking success, distributing millions in prize money across the festival. The highlight was the €5,300 Main Event, where Russia‘s Aleksandr Shevliakov bested a massive field of 1,195 entries to claim the prestigious title and a €1,000,000 top prize. High-stakes action was equally intense, with Germany ‘s Chris Nguyen taking down the €100,000 Super High Roller for a staggering €2,022,000, emerging victorious from a tough field of 74 elite competitors. The festival also saw huge turnouts in the opening events, as Norway ‘s Jon Kyte navigated through 2,387 entries in the PokerStars Open to win €340,000. Other notable champions included Ben Tollerene in the €25,000 High Roller and Kayhan Mokri in the Mystery Bounty event. These impressive numbers solidify Monte-Carlo‘s status as a premier stop on the European Poker Tour.

The Venue: Sporting Monte-Carlo

The tournament is held at the Sporting Monte-Carlo in the spectacular Salle des Etoiles (Room of the Stars). This is one of the most stunning poker rooms in the world, famous for its retractable roof that can open to reveal the night sky. The venue is located on the Larvotto peninsula, a short distance from the main Casino Square.

Dress Code: Smart Casual. No shorts, sportswear, or flip-flops are allowed in the tournament area.

Poker Events at Sporting Monte-Carlo | Monaco Poker Guide

Monaco (MC)

Currency[EUR] €

Time ZoneUTC+01:00

Sporting Monte-Carlo

Monte Carlo

Sporting Monte-Carlo is a prestigious event venue located in Monaco, known for hosting concerts, gala dinners, corporate events, and luxury private functions. It is not a regular casino or poker room, but part of the Monte-Carlo SBM group, which owns and manages Monaco’s premier gaming venues.

While there is no permanent poker room at this location, Sporting Monte-Carlo has occasionally hosted elite private poker events or invitation-only tournaments in collaboration with major international brands.

For regular poker games and tournaments, players typically visit the nearby Casino de Monte-Carlo.