Thailand Recognizes Poker as a Sport, Opening the Door to WPT Prime Thailand

In a landmark decision for Asia’s gaming industry, Thailand’s Sports Authority officially recognized poker as a competitive sport on 23 July 2025. The move paves the way for regulated tournaments and provides a legal framework for the World Poker Tour (WPT) and other operators to bring major events to the kingdom.

The first beneficiary of the new status is the WPT Prime Thailand festival, scheduled for 30 July to 5 August. Hosted at the EMSPHERE shopping complex in Bangkok, the festival features a ฿12 million (≈US$330,000) guaranteed Main Event. The WPT is working closely with Thai authorities to ensure smooth operations, including a professional dealer certification program and adherence to international tournament standards.

PokerGuru reports that Thailand’s recognition is part of a broader strategy to develop a regulated poker scene and bolster tourism. Beyond sanctioning tournaments, the Sports Authority is partnering with the WPT to train local dealers and create a pipeline of certified professionals. The long‑term goal is to establish dedicated poker rooms and integrated entertainment complexes that can attract international players and boost local revenues.

For players, the decision provides clarity: poker can be played legally in officially sanctioned venues, and winnings are protected under sporting regulations. For operators, Thailand becomes one of the few Southeast Asian jurisdictions to permit large‑scale poker tournaments, joining markets like the Philippines and Vietnam. Industry observers expect the WPT Prime Thailand event to draw significant regional participation and set the tone for future festivals in Bangkok.