ESPN called off its relationship with the WSOP in 2021, but is ready to come back
ESPN is set to resume broadcasting the World Series of Poker (WSOP) after a five-year break, marking a return to a longtime partnership. The new multi-year agreement will bring expanded coverage of poker’s biggest stage back to a familiar network.
Coverage will center around the $10,000 Main Event, with broadcasts beginning on the opening day of play in early July. Viewers can expect extensive daily programming, with several hours dedicated to each stage of the tournament across ESPN platforms.
One of the more notable changes is the return of a delayed final table format. Once the tournament reaches its last players, action will pause before resuming weeks later for a live finale. The final table will then play out across multiple nights on prime-time television.
During the break, ESPN plans to air edited episodes highlighting key moments and player stories. This approach is designed to build interest ahead of the final showdown and give audiences a deeper look at the competitors still in contention.
The WSOP previously moved its broadcast rights to another network in 2021, but this new deal signals a shift back to a broader audience. Organizers believe ESPN’s reach can help present the event in a way similar to other major sports broadcasts.
Production will also get a boost through collaboration with new creative partners, aiming to improve storytelling and presentation. The goal is to make the viewing experience more engaging for both longtime fans and new audiences.
Recent WSOP events have continued to grow, drawing large fields and record prize pools. With the return to ESPN, the series looks to build on that momentum and bring more attention to the game’s biggest tournament.
