EPT 2025: PokerStars Unveils Exciting European Poker Tour Schedule

As the world of poker eagerly anticipates the upcoming seasons, PokerStars has officially announced the first three stops of the highly anticipated 2025 European Poker Tour (EPT). The returning icons include EPT Paris, EPT Monte-Carlo, and EPT Barcelona, all renowned for their vibrant atmospheres and thrilling competition.

This announcement builds on a remarkable year for the EPT, highlighted by the celebration of its 20th anniversary in 2024, which showcased the tour’s enduring legacy in the poker community. While these three events are confirmed, PokerStars assures fans that more destinations will be announced in due time.

“We’re excited to announce the first part of the calendar with the return of EPT Paris, Monte-Carlo, and Barcelona for 2025, said Julien Liarte, Live Events Senior Business Development Manager. The anticipation is palpable as players gear up for another unforgettable year of live poker, where the blend of competition and community thrives like never before.

EPT Paris Kicks Off 2025

The 2025 EPT season will commence in the enchanting city of Paris, with events scheduled from February 12 to 23 at the prestigious Le Palais des Congrès. This marks the third iteration of EPT Paris, which shattered attendance records in 2024. A remarkable 4,149 entries made the France Poker Series Main Event the largest in its history, while the EPT Main Event attracted 1,224 players from 69 countries, making it one of the most diverse fields seen to date. Barny Boatman emerged victorious in this stellar event, taking home an impressive prize of €1,287,800, and subsequently became a PokerStars ambassador.

To participate in EPT Paris, aspiring players can start competing in online satellites beginning November 17. Opportunities include securing an €8,000 package, which encompasses a €5,300 EPT Main Event buy-in, eight nights at the Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile, and additional expenses. Furthermore, players can aim for a €3,300 package for the France Poker Series Main Event, which includes a €1,100 buy-in and seven nights’ accommodation.

In addition, the Power Path offers online qualifiers three exciting package options:

• Gold Pass: Entry to the EPT Paris Main Event + eight nights hotel for player and guest, plus expenses (value €9,300/$10,300).
• Gold Pass: Entry to both the EPT Paris Main Event and France Poker Series, plus expenses (value €9,300/$10,300).
• Silver Pass: Entry to the FPS Main Event, along with expenses (value €2,300/$2,500).

Each Gold Pass not only includes expenses but also features limited-edition merchandise, live event support, and access to exclusive FPS/EPT Paris activities.

EPT Monte-Carlo and EPT Barcelona

Following the Paris leg, the EPT moves to the luxurious Monte-Carlo Casino from April 30 to May 10, 2025. Known for its spectacular views of the Mediterranean, this stop combines high-stakes poker with opulent surroundings, genuinely capturing the essence of the poker lifestyle.

The 2024 EPT Monte Carlo saw Derk van Luijk triumph over Boris Angelov in an exciting heads-up finish, while poker legend Patrik Antonius captured the spotlight by winning the €100,000 Super High Roller.

From August 18 to 31, the tour will return to the vibrant atmosphere of Casino Barcelona. This popular stop is known for its massive fields, with last year’s main event registering 1,975 entries and disbursing a staggering €9.5 million prize pool. Stephen Song, the 2024 EPT Main Event champion, showcased his exceptional skills throughout the tournament—marking a true highlight of the EPT’s 20th-anniversary celebrations.

What Does This Mean for Cyprus and Prague?

While the excitement of the confirmed events is palpable, the absence of Cyprus and Prague from the 2025 lineup raises questions. Cyprus joined the EPT circuit in 2023, hosting its second edition just last month, while Prague has historically been a favorite stop for many players.

The omission of these popular locations suggests that the EPT may be exploring new venues for the later part of the year. As we wait for further announcements, one pressing question lingers: Where will the EPT venture in the second half of 2025?

In conclusion, the unveiling of the 2025 EPT schedule brings renewed excitement to the poker community. The iconic cities of Paris, Monte-Carlo, and Barcelona promise thrilling poker action, elite-level competition, and unforgettable experiences for players from around the globe. As we look forward to these events, the anticipation for more announcements only adds to the thrill of the upcoming poker season.

Barny Boatman, EPT Paris 2024 Champion

Written by Calum Grant, Senior Editor & Live Events Executive at PokerNews. Calum has been a part of PokerNews since September 2021, having developed a passion for the game through his experiences. He has meticulously covered major poker events—bringing insights and live updates to poker enthusiasts worldwide.