WSOP Prepares for 10,000, May Get One Third

The World Series of Poker announced Wednesday that they are preparing for a 14% increase in attendance at this year's WSOP event.  As such, 10,000 are expected to attend.

But because the WSOP has been fueled by internet poker sponsored entries over the past few years, that 10,000 number is being considered a pipe dream.  The World Series of Poker and Harrah's have banned all online poker sponsorships and advertisements, including .net free play ads.  Asian gambling empire Macau and Ladbrokes are already looking to capitalize on the WSOP's inability to comprehend what mechanisms helped their massive poker tournament grow so quickly.

Organizers said today that the number was for planning purposes only, and did not reflect confidence that last year's 8,773 entrants would be topped.

Half of last year's record number of entrants were estimated to have won their seats in online qualifier events.

Assuming only half of last year's 8773 entrants attend, the prize pool would be significantly less, though the odds of winning would be improved dramatically.

Unfortunately, this is not even a realistic assessment.  Because the US government has cracked down on internet poker over the past several months, making it difficult for individuals to deposit and withdrawal funds, the other half of that 8773 number might not have the funds to participate.  Whether individuals won their seats in online qualifiers or not becomes immaterial when considering nearly everyone who takes part in the WSOP also plays poker online these days.  Interest in poker is also likely to be waning due to the enforcement efforts.  

A higher number of entrants would mean the grand prize for the world's richest poker game would exceed last year's $12 million.

As it stands now, a $4 million prize is more likely.  That's a nice chunk of change, but it would represent a severe backwards step in the WSOP's efforts.

Gambling911.com will be on hand at this year's World Series of Poker with a crew of sexy young recruits competing for their shot at becoming a reporter with the world's leading online gambling news and information website.

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Christopher Costigan, Gambling911.com

Originally published March 15, 2007 10:11 am ET