The last time when PokerStars stopped in Prague was back in 2019. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the European Poker Tour (EPT) was played online last year. Now, it is time for PokerStars to return once again to Prague with EPT Prague that starts this December.
PokerStars Returns to Prague in December
Much has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic started last year. The pandemic impacted all industries including the gambling industry. Casinos were forced to close their doors and once they were allowed to reopen strict COVID-related measures were implemented.
The pandemic also impacted live poker games. But poker tournaments quickly found a way to overcome those difficulties by switching to online editions. This was precisely the case for the European Poker Tour (EPT). lodi646 Although last year, due to the pandemic, the event was changed to an online version, this year, poker fans will be able to participate in live-action at Hilton Hotel in Prague, the Czech Republic in December.
While the dress code for the event is casual, no sportswear is allowed. Each of the visitors must bring a photo ID or a passport to enter the casino, but they must also follow strict health and safety measures that will be implemented.
European Poker Tour Prague 2021 When and WhereDate: ETP Prague will run from December 8 through December 19, 2021Place: King’s Casino Prague, Hilton Prague, Czech RepublicBuy-in: Multiple buy-in options online via PokerStars or online satellitesThe ETP Prague Will Feature Multiple Key Events
One of the key events is the ETP National. The tournament launches on December 9 and will go through December 13. The buy-in for the event is approximately $1,270 (€1,100). On December 11, the ETP Super High Roller launches. The tournament will run through December 13 with a $58,000 (€50,000) buy-in. Around the same dates, players will also have a chance to participate in the ETP National High Roller. The event starts on December 12 and will run through December 13. The buy-in is set at $2,500 (€2,200).
ETP Prague’s Main Event launches on December 13 with a $6,150 (€5,300) buy-in and will go through December 19. On the other hand, the ETP Prague High Roller will start on December 17. The event will feature an $11,950 (€10,300) buy-in and will go through December 19.
It is important to mention that PokerStars revealed that the schedule of the events is subject to changes related to the ongoing health situation in the country.
COVID-Related Health and Safety Measures Will Be in Place
To ensure the safety of guests and staff, PokerStars, in collaboration with Kings Casino and the Hilton Prague Hotel will implement strict health and safety measures. The guidelines coincide with the current COVID-19 safety measures introduced by the Czech government.
PokerStars revealed that visitors of the ETP Prague will need to provide a vaccination certificate. If that’s not available, they need to present a negative PCR test which can be a maximum of 7 days old, or a negative antigen test result which can be 72 hours old. For the convenience of players, the organizers offer free-of-charge rapid antigen tests on-site.
To enter the casino, all visitors must go through a temperature scan. Additionally, masks will be mandatory for visitors inside the casino. The venue will display signage encouraging social distancing and there will also be personal protection equipment (PPE) stations supplying hand sanitizers, disposal masks and gloves.