The World Poker Tour has penned a new three-year deal with FOX Sports Network, who looks to push poker into primetime TV with promises of improved conditions for the popular poker show.

The WPT is one of modern poker's strongest brands, thanks to among other things a strong TV presence both in the U.S. and abroad. The circuit has with great success been televised in its earlier seasons by FSN, and the WPT management is happy to see the collaboration continue.

"This season promises to be unlike any previous incarnations of the WPT. The shows will be faster-paced and edgier, featuring the biggest names in poker mixing it up with more up-and-coming stars, pre-final table action and, as always, poker's greatest and most recognizable play-by-play commentary team of Mike Sexton and Vince Van Patten" said CEO of the WPT, Steve Heller, in a press release.

Heller's enthusiasm is shared by Adam Pliska, President of the WPT.

"“As a leader in sports programming, FSN has been a great champion of the WPT and we are thrilled to make this long-term commitment as we celebrate a new day for the WPT. The better air times, improved promotion and the increased number of repeat episodes promise to be a boon for fans and the perfect showcase for the exciting changes coming to the WPT starting in Season 9" Pliska said.

FOX Sports Network is equally delighted with the deal, which commits the broadcaster to push the WPT into the best airtime possible.

"FSN is excited to remain the home for The World Poker Tour, which continues to deliver ratings. WPT is one of the most respected brands in poker and will only grow with the tremendous innovations they are bringing to the show in the new season" said Vice President of Programming at Fox, David Sussin.

The World Poker Tour has flourished as a TV show since its debut season in 2002, and today the shows are followed by millions of people in more than 150 countries worldwide.