On Wednesday, December 3, PokerStars revealed that its iconic Spring Championship of Online Poker (SCOOP) will return to the site's virtual felt from March 1-25 in 2026 – moving the one-of-a-kind online series forward on the calendar in comparison to previous years. SCOOP maintains its reputation as one of the most anticipated online poker series of the year and players can expect the same multi-tiered schedule despite the accelerated timeline.
PokerStars' explanation for the revised timetable includes an assertion that "SCOOP's timing helps us create a more streamlined sequence of events across the year." Further details, including the complete 2026 schedule and prize pools, will follow in the new year.
It's back: SCOOP returns in 2026 with an earlier kick-off date. PokerStars Q&A clarifies SCOOP 2026
PokerStars has provided answers to a few pertinent questions surrounding the early start date for SCOOP 2026 – check them out below.
Why is SCOOP taking place earlier this year?
We regularly review our global events calendar to make sure our major series land at the best possible time for players. We saw an opportunity to bring SCOOP forward and start the year with a stronger, clearer run of events.
Has anything major changed with SCOOP because of the new dates?
No, players can expect the same high-quality festival they look forward to every year. The new dates simply allow us to optimise timing. The structure, variety, and prestige of SCOOP remain the same.
Will the earlier dates affect prize pools or guarantees?
Full details of guarantees and the final schedule will be announced in the new year. As always, SCOOP will deliver a top-tier, highly competitive series with significant opportunities across all buy-ins.
Is this the new permanent timing for SCOOP going forward?
We’ll continue to review timing each year as part of our wider events planning. For 2026, we’re excited to deliver SCOOP to players earlier than ever.
Will this impact other PokerStars series?
PokerStars' broader 2026 events calendar remains strong. Adjusting SCOOP’s timing helps us create a more streamlined sequence of events across the year.
