Embracing the Mind Sport: World Poker Federation’s Vision
The World Poker Federation (WPF) was established with the core objective of securing global recognition for poker as an official mind sport, as detailed on its official platforms.
This ambitious goal was successfully achieved in late 2024, when the International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) granted poker official mind-sport status. Following this milestone, the WPF’s mandate has shifted to developing a robust, ethical governance structure essential to any major competitive discipline achieving long-term success and integrity on the global stage.
TDA and WPF Join Forces in Brazil
WPF underscored its commitment to these goals at an important meeting in São Paulo, Brazil, this month . This event brought together major organizations, including the Poker Tournament Directors Association (TDA), the Brazilian Association of Poker Tournament Directors (ADTP), and the Brazilian Poker Federation (CBTH)
Roberto Lifschitz, Marketing Director for the World Poker Federation, stated that the meeting highlighted the crucial role of a passionate community in the future growth and improvement of the game of poker .
“It strengthens tournament operations,” said Lifschitz. “It reaffirms poker as a mind sport grounded in technique, structure, and professionalism.”
Other attendees included:
- Devanir “DC” Campos – TDA Board Member, founder of the BSOP, long-standing member of the ADTP, and CEO of Stack Eventos
- Alberoni “Bill” Castro – President of the Brazilian poker federation (CBTH) and Sports Director at the World Poker Federation (WPF)
- Roberto Soares “Bob” – Head Tournament Director of the BSOP and director for the LAPT and CCTH
- Marcus Júnior – Tournament Director at the BSOP
Setting Global Rules for Fair Play
Player Behavior & Ethics
Following recent public incidents, attendees focused heavily on establishing clear, global rules for player conduct. Everyone agreed that we need more decisive intervention when actions threaten the competitive vibe and the integrity of the “mind sport”.
Fighting Tech in the Game
A primary concern was the proliferation of electronic devices and Real-Time Assistance (RTA) tools appearing during tournaments. In short, how to keep technology from cheating the game.
They also addressed key practical issues, including shot clocks, late-registration rules, “speech play,” and other practices that affect the speed, clarity, and overall experience of play.
Everyone at the summit agreed: global policies must continue to move forward. This is essential to safeguard fairness and ensure that poker remains a game defined by mind, skill, and structured competition.
What Comes Next
Following the success of similar gatherings in Asia and Latin America, the WPF summit is set to expand into new regions in 2026!
The goal for future editions is clear: to gather even more tournament directors, organizers, and key stakeholders from the poker industry. This expansion aims to build broader support for the long-term growth of poker worldwide. Get ready for a bigger, more global conversation!
