PokerStars adjusts buy-ins for PokerStars Open events at EPT stops

crowds at PokerStars Open Campione
Mo Afdhal
Posted on: May 24, 2025 07:38 PDT

PokerStars has announced an update to its PokerStars Open buy-in levels. With these updates, specifically tailored for events at European Poker Tour (EPT) stops, PokerStars hopes to enhance its players' experience and reduce waitlists for entry.  

As live poker continues to grow in Europe – both EPT Monte Carlo and EPT Prague saw record-setting attendance – the following adjustments will be made to PokerStars Open events during the remaining 2025 festival schedule (Barcelona, Malta, and Prague).

  • PokerStars Open buy-in now €1,650 from €1,100
  • PokerStars Open Cup buy-in now €825 from €550
  • PokerStars Open High Roller buy-in now €2,700 from €2,200
An electronic banner above the tv stage at ept monte carlo. credit manuel kovsca rational EPT Monte Carlo saw a boom in attendance.
MANUEL KOVSCA

Standalone Opens remain unchanged

The buy-ins at standalone PokerStars Open events (Namur, Malaga, Manchester, and Cannes) will remain unchanged. 

PokerStars have also guaranteed an end to 10-handed play at these events. These adjustments follow course with PokerStars' recent live event changes and are likewise designed to promote fair play and with players' feedback in mind. 

“These updates are a direct result of player input and the evolving demands of large-scale live tournaments, when operating in restricted capacity,” said Toby Stone, EPT Tournament Director. “It’s fantastic to see the success of PokerStars Open events and continued growth at EPTs. Our teams are committed to provide a world-class experience, and we believe those changes will help maintaining that at our larger events with reduced waitlists and queueing time.”

Toby Stone addressing an issue at EPT Prague. Toby Stone addressing players at EPT Prague.

“These changes are also driven by player comfort, and we guarantee no more 10-handed play in any tournament, 9 will be the maximum, as well as maximum of 8-handed when in the money," Stone continued.

The PokerStars Open touches down next week in Namur, Belgium from May 28 to June 9. 

Images courtesy of PokerStars/Manuel Kovsca/Rational Intellectual Holdings Ltd