Poker Recognized as a Mind Sport
Official Recognition by IMSA
The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) has officially included poker in the list of mind sports alongside chess, bridge, and Go. This confirms that the game requires strategic thinking, analysis, and decision-making under pressure.
The recognition is the result of efforts by the World Poker Federation (WPF), which represents more than 45 national federations. Since 2022, the organization had temporary status in IMSA and has now achieved full recognition. The announcement was made during the largest poker event in Latin America, BSOP Millions in São Paulo.
Significance of the Recognition
Establishing poker as a mind sport will bring several important changes:
- For players: More tournaments, career opportunities, and international competitions.
- For the industry: Development of a professional community, stability, and new markets.
- For businesses and sponsors: Transparent rules, increased interest, and new partnerships.
WPF President Igor Trafane stated: “This is the result of years of effort by thousands of players who see poker not just as a game of chance, but as an intellectual challenge.”
Next Steps
WPF will continue working on:
- Standardizing the rules;
- Protecting players’ rights in competitions;
- Creating an international tournament system.
WPF CEO Leonardo Cavarge emphasized: “It is now crucial to establish official regulations and provide global support for players.”
Poker as a Mind Sport
The IMSA recognition confirms that poker is based on strategy, situational analysis, and the ability to make quick decisions. This places the game alongside other intellectual sports and opens new opportunities for the poker community.