Valter Farina captured the country’s first WSOP title in 1995 playing Seven Card Stud
Valter Farina, the first Italian to win a bracelet at the World Series of Poker, has passed away at the age of 72. News of his death began circulating on March 15, prompting an outpouring of messages from across the poker community remembering his impact on the game.
Farina made history in 1995 when he captured the $1,500 Seven Card Stud title at the WSOP, earning $144,600. The victory marked a milestone for Italian poker, placing the country on the global map at a time when few players from Europe were making deep runs in Las Vegas events.
Known for his strength in Seven Card Stud, Farina had already shown his ability the year before with back-to-back seventh-place finishes in the same format. His breakthrough came when he defeated Steve Karabinas heads-up to secure his bracelet, a win that would define his career and inspire players from his home country.
Beyond tournaments, Farina spent years in Las Vegas cash games, where he built a reputation as one of the first Italian professionals. Later in life, he relocated from Genoa to Sint Maarten, becoming a familiar face in the local poker scene and continuing to compete well into his later years.
Tributes quickly followed his passing, including words from Max Pescatori, a four-time WSOP bracelet winner who credited Farina as a mentor. Alessio Isaia also shared memories, describing him as both a close friend and someone he deeply admired.
