The WSOP engines are already heating up. The most important poker series in the world starts on the 26th. However, controversies about the regulations have already begun. Last Friday (15), British player Patrick Leonard put his participation in the tournaments at risk, as he had a request denied by the organization.
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Thus, the issue involves section V of the WSOP regulations. Rule 52 states that those interested in using sponsor logos on tables with broadcast must request prior permission by email. The request must be made up to 24 hours in advance, indicating the location where the logo will be displayed.
However, the simple request does not guarantee the use of the so-called patches, for example. The player must receive express written authorization to be able to display the sponsors’ names. In case of failure in this process, the organization may disqualify the participant from any tournament, without refund of the buy-in.
Thus, Patrick Leonard did not have authorization to use a brand that sponsors him. Because of this, the Brit does not know if he will play the WSOP. “Rules are rules, I will respect them even if I disagree with them”, wrote the player in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter).
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Why was Patrick Leonard’s request denied?
With that, the possibility of WSOP denying the player’s request may be due to the “Coin Poker” platform. Leonard is an ambassador for the site which is not yet regulated in the United States. On social media, the online “Pads” posted the response received from the WSOP organization.
According to the email he received, the request was denied for not complying with the series’ guidelines. The regulations regarding players’ appearance at broadcast tables are extensive and include a series of prohibitions. Promotions of tobacco, lotteries, pornography, and gambling are not allowed.
Finally, it is worth remembering that Patrick Leonard is a true legend of online play. According to “The Hendon Mob,” he has over US$5 million in live circuit earnings. In 2022 he won the only bracelet of his career, winning Event #55 Tag Team alongside Norwegian Espen Jorstad.
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