The iconic Irish Open enters the scene once again, bringing with it a rich tradition, vibrant atmosphere, and an increasing significance in the modern European calendar. This year's edition at the Royal Dublin Society features 86 tournaments, a Main Event with a €2,500,000 guarantee, a Mini Irish Open with a €1,000,000 guarantee, and the Luxon Pay Mystery Bounty also guaranteed at €1,000,000, one of the main highlights right at the start of the series.
Organizers are anticipating the largest edition in history, with at least 280 tables ready on site. Dublin's strength lies in offering more than just buy-ins and guarantees; it's about delivering an experience. Since 2023, the RDS has been the home of the event, with the Craic Den set to be the social hub of the festival, making the entire event feel more like a grand poker celebration than just a series of tournaments.
For recreational players, it's a chance to dive into a major festival without the sterile feel. For the regulars, it means a combination of volume, strong prize pools, and a distinct festival energy. Yet, this year, Dublin faces a rival like never before in the spring.
Europe's version of the WSOP is moving to Prague for the first time and will take place in the spring. Officially starting on March 31 at Hilton Prague, under the banner of King’s Casino, it will offer 15 bracelet events. At the top stands the Main Event with a €5,300 buy-in and a record-breaking €10,000,000 guarantee, which WSOP calls the largest guarantee in the history of European live poker. This figure alone shifts the entire spring calendar's focus. Suddenly, Prague is not just another stop – it's a magnet.
WSOPE doesn't rely solely on the Main Event. The schedule includes events like The Opener Mystery Bounty for €1,100, COLOSSUS for €565, MONSTER STACK for €1,650, PLO European Championship for €5,300, and the European Circuit Championship with a €1,500,000 guarantee. High roller events include the GGMillion$ High Roller for €8,400 and Super High Roller for €20,800. For players, this means Prague is targeting a wide range – from bracelet hunters and online qualifiers to the high stakes scene.
This truly sets the stage for a ‘battle for spring’. In the past, those wanting to partake in a major European spring festival had an easier choice. However, this year, the calendar demands decisions. The Irish Open Main Event kicks off today, March 26, while WSOPE starts on March 31. This creates a direct clash not only in dates but also in audience type. Some players will lean towards tradition, accessible entry, and the unique Dublin atmosphere. Others will head for bracelets, higher buy-ins, and the prestige of the WSOP brand.
For the players, it's a great opportunity but also a challenging logistical task. Dublin offers variety in formats and the comforts of a festival environment, while Prague brings immediate pressure for results, as every deep run could carry historical significance. Additionally, starting from 2026, points for the WSOP Player of the Year are counted across WSOP Europe, the summer WSOP in Las Vegas, and WSOP Paradise. This gives the Prague festival even more weight for anyone aiming for season-long goals.
One thing is already certain – the poker spring is kicking off in grand style. Dublin has the head start, Prague has huge ambition. For players, it will be a spring of decisions; for fans, a spring to remember for years to come. Are you excited?
Sources – X, TheHendonMob, WSOP, irishpokeropen.com
