Poker is now officially considered a sport in Thailand, a big step forward for the country's industry just days before the World Poker Tour visits with its WPT Prime Exhibition.
The move is part of Thailand's new sports and tourism strategy, which will focus on developing new options for a younger generation of visitors. Most forms of gambling are prohibited, with a few (government-run) exceptions for lotteries and horse racing. The Sports Authority of Thailand also recognized American football ahead of its flag version being included in the 2028 Olympics.
What does it mean?
Official recognition will now open the door for professional development of the industry to support competitions in Thailand. A press release referenced poker's mental acuity and analytical thinking as support for its inclusion as a mind sport, where "athletes" can compete globally at different competitive levels.
The Sports Authority of Thailand notes, however, that poker must remain "within the realm of sports and is not related to gambling in any way."
WPT goes to Bangkok
The stage is now set for the WPT Prime Thailand Exhibition, a special 'Play + Travel' event at the EMSPHERE venue in Bangkok from July 30 through August 5. Players can purchase travel packages that offer cultural experiences and access to one of three events headlined by the WPT Prime Thailand Exhibition Championship.
The Prime Championship package is the highest tier with a cost of 37,000 THB (~ USD $1,125), with the two other packages listing at 7,000 THB (~$212) and 14,000 THB ($425).
Images courtesy of WPT/Sports Authority of Thailand
