Overview
- ESPN and the World Series of Poker announced Thursday a multi-year deal that returns the Main Event to ESPN platforms starting July 2 with roughly 100 hours of programming.
- The coverage guarantees at least six hours per tournament day, adds three simultaneous featured tables in the early rounds, and mixes live play with edited episodes.
- After the final table is set on July 13, play pauses for 20 days while ESPN airs prime-time recap shows, then resumes for a live three-night finale from Aug. 3–5.
- Omaha Productions will produce the broadcasts, pointing to a personality-led style that aims to help casual viewers connect with the players.
- The move follows WSOP’s 2024 sale to NSUS Group and a recent run on CBS Sports Network and PokerGO, with outlets noting ESPN’s role since 1987 and the shorter break as a tweak to the old ‘November Nine’ format.