ESPN is bringing one of poker’s most recognizable events back to its platforms. The network has reached a multi-year agreement with the World Series of Poker to air extensive coverage of the WSOP Main Event, including a live, prime-time finale on linear television.
The agreement marks a renewed partnership between the two brands, which played a major role in popularizing poker on television.
As part of the deal, ESPN will present more than 100 hours of coverage across its platforms. Action begins July 2 with streaming coverage of Day 1A of the $10,000 No-Limit Hold’em World Championship on the ESPN App. The company will also produce edited episodes for its linear networks, focusing on storytelling and key moments from the tournament.
The highlight of the package comes in early August. ESPN will air the Main Event Final Table live over three consecutive nights from August 3-5. Each broadcast will run from 9 p.m. to midnight ET, giving the tournament a national, prime-time stage.
Ashley O’Connor, ESPN’s vice president of programming and acquisitions, said the return of the WSOP represents an important moment for both the network and its audience.
“We’re excited to showcase the intensity and unpredictability of this tournament across our platforms,” said O’Connor.
WSOP CEO Ty Stewart echoed that sentiment. He pointed to the long-standing relationship between the two brands and its impact on the game’s growth. Stewart added that the renewed partnership will help introduce poker to a new generation of fans through expanded coverage and modern distribution.
ESPN first aired the WSOP Main Event in 1987. Over the years, the network became closely associated with many of the tournament’s most memorable moments and champions. The coverage helped elevate poker’s popularity, particularly during the early 2000s boom.
Now, both sides are aiming to build on that legacy. By combining live broadcasts with digital streaming and edited storytelling, the new agreement reflects how audiences consume sports content today.
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