The WPT was the first to adapt to the new world order with its WPT Online test series in May 2020.
For 2021, it looks like they'll be moving a lot of their big events online. Despite the move, each event will be connected to a brick-and-mortar location, at least in name. First up, it's the WPT Montreal, which plays out in U.S. dollars, not Canadian currency.
The first events kick off on the 17th of January with a $530 PLO progressive knockout. There will be a further 23 events between then and the final day of the $10,300 Mike Sexton Classic on the 1st Feb.
As well as the Mike Sexton Classic, the two major events will be the $3,200 WPT Montreal Main Event, which will crown a new WPT champion.
There are a number of high roller events in the four figure range for the big-spenders, as well as events for as little as $55 per buy-in. All events have satellites running on the partypoker platform.
How to play
Usually the WPT Montreal is held at Montreal's Playground Poker Club, this year it will be all online at partypoker.
Since the WPT Montreal is online, you'll need a decent internet connection and a device to install the partypoker client on.
Be aware that if you do not already have a partypoker account, you will need to provide some KYC paperwork before you can play for real money. This is usually proof of address (e.g. a copy of your driver's license or utility bill) and proof of I.D. (e.g. copy of your passport).
Signing up can take some time, so don't leave it too late.
Your access to the event will also depend on whether you are in a segregated pool (like Italy) or if online poker is illegal in your location (like China). Partypoker should notify you during the "address" phase of the sign up process if there is a problem relating to your location.
The Main Event
The Main Event will have two day ones (Day 1A and Day 1B) which will run on Saturday, January 23rd and Sunday, January 24th. Each of these day ones will have one re-entry per player.
Players start with 200,000 in chips and 25-minute blind levels. The blind levels will get longer each subsequent day of play. The tournament will finish up on day 4.
The winner of the Main Event will receive, in addition to the first prize payout, a $15,000 ticket to the WPT Tournament of champions. They also get their name on the Mike Sexton Cup, a trophy introduced this year, just a few months before Sexton passed away.
The winner will receive a replica of the cup for their own trophy cabinet while the main trophy will stay with the WPT.
Check back here for any updates.
Featured image source: Twitter
