Malta, long celebrated as Europe’s poker hub, is about to welcome a new addition to its vibrant tournament scene. For the first time ever, the World Series of Poker Circuit (WSOP-C) will land on the island, bringing its prestigious brand to the Mediterranean from September 25 through October 12, 2026.
Until now, Malta has hosted major events like the Battle of Malta, Festival Series, and even parts of the European Poker Tour, yet WSOP-C had never visited. That changes this fall at Casino Malta in St. Julian’s, where players will compete for 12 international circuit rings and $5,000 packages to the WSOP Paradise in the Bahamas.
A Milestone for European Poker
Gregory Chochon, WSOP’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the significance of the stop:
“As the first-ever WSOP Circuit event in Malta, this partnership marks a major milestone for live poker in the region. Our goal is simple: to deliver a world-class event and set a new standard on the European poker calendar.”
The WSOP-C Malta launch aligns with broader changes to the 2026 WSOP Circuit schedule, which already includes other first-time stops, such as Grand Casino Gamprin in Liechtenstein running through March 10.
How to Qualify
While full details are still pending, players can likely expect online satellites on GGPoker, as well as qualification opportunities through Texapoker, a French live events company partnering with WSOP for this inaugural Mediterranean stop.
For now, prospective participants can explore the 2026 WSOP Circuit schedule to plan their path toward a WSOP-C ring and a chance to compete in WSOP Paradise later this year.
Malta’s poker scene is about to get even more exciting, and for WSOP fans, this first-ever Mediterranean stop is a must-watch event.
