COVID-19 vaccinations required at 2021 WSOP

If you’re planning on playing in any events at the 2021 World Series of Poker in September you had better get your COVID-19 vaccinations.

WSOP representatives announced late last week that anyone attending the 2021 WSOP must prove they have had two shots of COVID-19 vaccine. The requirement applies to everyone gaining access to the property including players, spectators, press, vendors, dealers and organizers.

[ Ad: Play online and get ready for WSOP 2021 by pocketing a huge bonus and playing big stakes and small – check out Ignition Poker ]

Proof a vaccination will be required to participate in any event held at the Rio during the WSOP including all bracelet events, satellite tournaments and cash games. The WSOP will use the CLEAR mobile app and its Health Pass feature to verify that everyone admitted to the venue has been fully vaccinated. There will also be a verification center on-site to properly verify other types of documents such as physical vaccination cards and records that prove vaccination status.

In a release announcing the new requirement WSOP Executive Director Ty Stewart is quoted, “This is not a decision we have taken lightly–it is made with no agenda beyond protecting player eligibility and the operations of a unique televised gaming event.

The nature of poker is to be in close proximity with your opponents for extended periods of time, and a seat at the World Series of Poker is a commitment for both our company and the participants. We want players to be excited for their return to the WSOP, while offering the greatest level of protection and limiting complications during the tournament this fall.”

The WSOP also announced that consistent with current CDC guidelines and state mandates all attendees at the WSOP will be required to wear masks. Any fully vaccinated WSOP participant that may have been exposed to someone that has tested positive for COVID-19 will not be required to leave the tournament if they remain asymptomatic.

The 2021 WSOP is scheduled to take place at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas from September 30 to November 23.