The World Poker Federation and the Poker Tournament Directors Association will host a joint summit
Two major poker organizations are joining forces in Brazil this December, bringing together many of the most influential figures in the tournament world. The World Poker Federation (WPF) and the Poker Tournament Directors Association (TDA) will host a joint summit in São Paulo at the WTC Sheraton, following the conclusion of the BSOP Millions. It marks the latest stop in a global series of meetings, with the previous edition held earlier this year in Taiwan.
Organizers expect more than 200 attendees, including directors, regulators, and industry leaders from across Latin America, Europe, and Asia. More than 150 professionals have already confirmed their participation, highlighting the region’s growing importance in the poker landscape. Brazil, in particular, has emerged as a powerhouse, hosting polished festivals with deep fields and well-developed structures.
The summit’s goal is to strengthen that momentum. WPF CEO Leonardo Cavarge said the meeting reflects the group’s focus on raising global standards and encouraging collaboration among poker organizations. For Latin America, it represents an opportunity to unify tournament practices and support the region’s expanding calendar of events.
Several key figures behind Brazil’s poker rise will also play important roles at the summit. Devanir “DC” Campos, co-founder of the BSOP and a TDA board member, will share insights on building consistent procedures across large events. Alberoni “Bill” Castro, president of the Brazilian Confederation of Texas Hold’em and WPF sports director, will discuss governance and the growth of organized poker in the country.
The agenda includes technical panels, case studies, and open debates on issues such as shot-clock use, handling disruptive behavior, chat limits at the table, and cross-border rules alignment. Attendees will also take part in Q&A sessions with directors who manage some of the continent’s largest festivals.
The WPF Women’s Committee will be in attendance as well, aiming to expand conversations around diversity and encourage tournament organizers to build more inclusive environments.
For both organizations, the summit represents an important step toward harmonizing standards across continents. With Brazil hosting and interest at an all-time high, the December event is expected to help shape how tournaments are run throughout Latin America in the years ahead.
