The 2026 World Series of Poker Europe (WSOPE) has seen its fair share of tension since the start of the series. Aside from Martin Kabrhel , who had already made headlines for disruptive behavior, another player caused a scene yesterday. Birger Larsen , competing on Day 2 of Event #9: €5,300 PLO European Championship at King’s Casino , became so agitated that he slapped the hand of someone trying to calm him, ultimately leading to his disqualification.

Escalation Leads To Disqualification

PokerNews captured video of Larsen arguing with the tournament director and displaying loud, aggressive behavior at the table. One player noted that Larsen appeared to be under the influence of alcohol during the tournament.. Short-stacked at the time, he won an all-in but continued his aggression, prompting a one-orbit penalty.

This escalated his frustration and culminated in the incident that ended his tournament (see video above). After refusing to comply with WSOP staff and slapping a player attempting to intervene, Larsen was disqualified. Larsen finished 30th out of 379 entries for €13,000, but his conduct may have cost him a chance at much more. The World Series of Poker (WSOP) confirmed the incident but declined to comment on potential future bans.

Birger Larsen’s Career Highlights

With over $800,000 in career live earnings, Larsen’s standout result came with a top-five finish in the MPP Main Event at EAPT for $225,000. He has also built a strong record on the Asian poker circuit, including a runner-up finish at the APPT Open during the APPT Manila Championship 2025 , participation in the APT Championship Taipei , and a 4th place cash in Omaha Dealer’s Choice – Turbo at GOP Phnom Penh , before traveling to Prague for WSOPE.

Other Notable Poker Conflicts at Prague

The incident draws a striking parallel to a similar Tuesday night during EPT Prague 2023, when Italian player Michele Nizzardelli was disqualified and removed from the venue following a violent altercation. That historical incident began when Swedish pro Ghattas Kortas moved all-in with pocket tens and was called by Nizzardelli’s ace-king.

Nizzardelli won the hand after flopping a king, but as Kortas walked away, he grabbed Nizzardelli’s hat. Nizzardelli took exception, pushing Kortas to the ground from behind and reportedly delivering a headbutt to his nose when Kortas rose to confront him. Much like Larsen, Nizzardelli was immediately disqualified and his stack was taken out of play.

The incident is a timely reminder that composure at the table is as important as skill in the cards. Birger Larsen’s talent is undeniable, but this disqualification shows how quickly a promising run can unravel when emotions take control. As the WSOPE continues, players and fans alike will be watching closely, not just the hands being played, but the tension that shapes the tournament.