Brazil brings together more than 200 tournament leaders for a poker industry meeting.
More than 200 tournament directors, organizers, federation representatives and poker industry professionals gathered on Monday (1st) for the TDA + WPF + ADTP Continental Summit: Brazil. Held in São Paulo, after the last stage of the BSOP, the event has established itself as one of the most relevant forums in Latin America dedicated to the evolution, professionalization and sporting structure of poker.
The meeting was a joint initiative of the World Poker Federation (WPF), Poker Tournament Directors Association (TDA), Brazilian Association of Poker Tournament Directors (ADTP), and Brazilian Texas Hold'em Confederation (CBTH). It also included the WPF Women's Committee, which works to promote more inclusive environments and increase the visibility of women in competitive poker.
Among the event leaders were prominent names in the sector such as Devanir “DC” Campos, member of the TDA Board, founder of BSOP, member of ADTP and director of Stack Eventos; Alberoni “Bill” Castro, president of CBTH and sports director of the World Poker Federation (WPF); Roberto Soares “Bob”, Head Tournament of BSOP and director of LAPT and CCTH, as well as Marcus Júnior, tournament director of BSOP. The Summit had the official support of H2bet, BSOP and Real Poker.
Two themes dominated the discussions. The first was player behavior at the tables, a topic that gained prominence especially after the recent controversies involving Czech player Martin Kabrhel during the BSOP Millions. Participants highlighted the need for clearer standards and firmer interventions when behavior affects the environment.
The second major topic was the use of electronic devices, which evolved into debates about real-time assistance, coaching tools, and new technologies. There was strong consensus that global policies need to continue advancing coherently to protect fairness and ensure that poker remains a mind sport defined by skill, structure, and competition.
Other important discussions included shot clocks, late registration policies, and practices that influence the pace of play. Participants analyzed these topics in depth, based on real-world scenarios from different markets.
“This Summit highlights the strength of a community working towards the development of poker. It strengthens tournament operations and reaffirms poker as a mind sport based on technique, structure, and professionalism,” says Roberto Lifschitz, marketing director of the World Poker Federation.
