World Poker Tour? Curacao Invitational a battlefield for the finest minds in poker, says Minister Silvania

Curacao’s Minister of Finance, Javier Silvania, officially opened the World Poker Tour? yesterday – kicking off the island’s first ever major gambling industry event. 

Taking place at the Dreams Cura?ao Resort, the collaboration between Javier Silvania, and the prestigious World Poker Tour? (WPT?) drew over 100 players from various avenues, including invited players, qualifiers from online satellite tournaments, and individuals from Cura?ao’s own poker room.

“WPT Global is committed to growing the game of poker and we’re excited to have likeminded partners in SiGMA and Cura?ao Poker helping us do just that,” said Rebecca Toback, Head of Marketing at WPT Global.

In his inauguration speech, the Minister noted that, “The WPT? has shown great support for upcoming changes to Cura?ao’s gambling landscape, for which we are honoured.”

He went on to say that the event ‘has become a battleground for the finest minds in poker’, with players from all around the world in attendance.

Rejauna Rojer, Tax Manager with HBN Law & Tax, who was also in attendance, commented that, “From a tax perspective substance requirements will remain a key part of doing business in Cura?ao.”

Following several thrilling rounds, the evening drew to a close with the announcement that professional Colombian poker player, Daniel Leandro Giraldo Soto, had been named champion.

Speaking to SiGMA News about the immense patience required to get to the top, he quipped, “Winning – why is it so difficult! To lose patience is to lose the battle.”

The Minister of Finance in association with SiGMA conference marks a pivotal moment for Curacao, highlighting its emergence as a revitalised jurisdiction on the international gaming stage. The expo and conference opens its doors today, with keynotes and panel discussions taking place at the Cura?ao Marriott Beach Resort.

About the World Poker Tour?

World Poker Tour? (WPT?) is the premier name in internationally televised gaming and entertainment with brand presence in land-based tournaments, television, online, and mobile. Leading innovation in the sport of poker since 2002, WPT ignited the global poker boom with the creation of a unique television show based on a series of high-stakes poker tournaments. WPT has broadcast globally in more than 150 countries and territories, and is currently producing its 21st season, which airs on Bally Sports in the United States. Season XXI of WPT is sponsored by ClubWPT.com. ClubWPT.com is a unique online membership site that offers inside access to the WPT, as well as a sweepstakes-based poker club available in 43 states and territories across the United States, Australia, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom. WPT also participates in strategic brand license, partnership, and sponsorship opportunities. For more information, go to WPT.com.