The International Mind Sports Association has added poker to its roster
Poker has achieved a major milestone with its official recognition as a Mind Sport by the International Mind Sports Association (IMSA). This decision places poker in the same category as chess and eSports, emphasizing its status as a discipline rooted in intellectual skill, strategy, and decision-making.
The recognition follows years of advocacy led by the World Poker Federation (WPF), which represents over 45 national federations. The WPF has worked diligently to redefine poker as more than just a game of chance, highlighting its alignment with IMSA’s criteria for Mind Sports. Igor Trafane, President of the WPF, hailed the decision as a victory for the poker community, noting that it underscores poker’s intellectual and strategic depth.
Leonardo Cavarge, CEO of the WPF, outlined the federation’s next steps, which include establishing standardized regulations, ensuring player protections, and creating an international competitive framework. These efforts aim to bolster poker’s reputation globally and provide a structured platform for players.
Poker’s recognition by IMSA follows a provisional membership granted to the WPF in late 2022. Over the past two years, the WPF has worked to unify national federations, partner with governments, and promote poker as a strategic discipline. By emphasizing its mental demands and decision-making under pressure, the WPF seeks to change public perceptions of poker and elevate it as a legitimate sport.
While challenges remain, particularly around regulation and societal attitudes, this milestone offers a solid foundation for poker’s future. The move is expected to open doors for wider acceptance, formal tournaments, and greater opportunities for players worldwide, marking a new era for the game.
