Partypoker Live has become the latest victim of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) as event cancellations continue around the world.
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Partypoker Live events in Europe have been cancelled due to the coronavirus (COVID-19). (Image: NHPR.org)
Following the postponement of tournaments across the US and Asia, Partypoker has put the kibosh on festivals in Europe.
Although the ongoing Super High Roller Series Sochi will run to its conclusion, pending stops in other countries have been rescheduled.
European Shutdown Hits Partypoker Live
In a March 10 press release, Partypoker Live officials said events in Barcelona and Cyprus have been cancelled for safety reasons.
“Unfortunately, we have had to postpone the upcoming WPT Barcelona festival which was due to take place between 22nd March and 5th April. In addition, the inaugural MILLIONS Cyprus which was due to run 3rd – 11th May, in partnership with Merit Poker, has been postponed,” reads the announcement.
For those looking to attend Millions Cyprus, the start date has been moved to August 26. However, with the impact of COVID-19 changing on a daily basis, the organizers have said “flexibility” remains the order of the day.
One event that will run as planned is the $5 million Merit Poker Classic at the Crystal Cove Hotel, Cyprus. Again though, with the start date being April 29, that festival will also be subject to change.
To accommodate those affected, Partypoker has said prize packages and buy-ins are transferrable. Additionally, anyone not wanting to travel due to coronavirus can contact the support team and review their options.
Coronavirus Could Hurt Poker for Many Months
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As the world of sport and entertainment continues to feel the effects of coronavirus, poker operators are responding accordingly.
In a video released on March 12, Triton Poker founder Paul Phua said anyone taking part in the tour’s Montenegro series will be tested. Those that refuse to be tested won’t be allowed to play.
The high roller and businessman also believes the 2020 World Series of Poker (WSOP) could be cancelled. Although officials have said its business as usual at the moment, the problem is escalating quickly. Based on that, Phua believes there’s a greater than 50 percent chance it won’t happen.
Cancelling the WSOP would be unprecedented but it’s far from a longshot at this point. Around the world, major events have either be cancelled or altered to protect people from coronavirus.
In the UK, soccer matches have been stopped, while the forthcoming Grand Prix in Australia has also been called off.
At this stage, experts are unsure as to how long the pandemic will last for. Without any cure or vaccine in sight, it’s likely coronavirus will affect poker events for the next few months at least.
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