The Global Poker Index says it no longer has enough resources to dedicate to the program
The Global Poker Awards will not be returning in 2026, marking a surprising pause for one of the industry’s most celebrated annual events. Organizers from the Global Poker Index (GPI) and The Hendon Mob (THM) confirmed the news on Thursday, explaining that the extensive time and resources required to prepare the ceremony have simply become unsustainable for their small team.
In a joint statement, GPI and THM emphasized that while the awards show will take a break, their commitment to recognizing excellence in poker remains unchanged. Key honors, such as the GPI Player of the Year and The Hendon Mob Award, will continue to be presented, ensuring standout performers still receive recognition for their achievements.
The Global Poker Awards has had a long and varied history. It first debuted in Europe in 2001, later moved to Los Angeles in 2014, and has been hosted at the PokerGO Studio at ARIA Las Vegas since 2019. The sixth and most recent edition, held this past February, handed out 38 awards across a wide range of categories, celebrating elite players, media contributors, and industry leaders. PokerStars was among the big winners during the ceremony.
Eric Danis, President of GPI and THM, noted that producing the event demands a significant commitment from their already lean team. He explained that the preparation process pulls two staff members away from daily operations for nearly two months each year, ultimately prompting the decision to pause the show.
While the awards ceremony may be on hold, its legacy—and the recognition it brings to the poker community—will continue through the organizations’ ongoing rankings and annual accolades.
