WPT Global has announced the signing of three-time Stanley Cup champion Phil Kessel as their newest brand ambassador. Kessel, an NHL star and avid poker enthusiast, will contribute to the site’s “Team Canada” initiative, aiming to boost player engagement with exclusive poker tournaments and VIP experiences for Canadian poker players.
Kessel’s love for poker is well-known among fans, as the hockey veteran has often spotted at marquee live poker events over the years. His presence in the poker community has long been a buzzworthy topic, particularly in NHL cities where fans have come to appreciate his serious, but fun-loving demeanor at the tables. Now, with his official role at WPT Global, Kessel is set to take his love of poker to the next level.
“I’ve been passionate about poker for over 20 years, and I’ve been a huge fan of the World Poker Tour for a long time,” Kessel said. “I’m really excited to work with WPT Global and to kick things off in Montreal. I can’t wait to bring some cool experiences to poker and hockey fans alike.”
A Canadian Online Poker Push
Kessel will begin his involvement with the site via WPT Global’s “Team Canada” initiative, which is designed to engage the Canadian poker community with exclusive events and promotions. The partnership kicks off in earnest during the upcoming WPT Playground Festival in Montreal that will be taking place from October 14-30, 2024, where Kessel will make several in-person appearances, giving players and fans the chance to interact with the hockey legend.
As part of his ambassadorship, WPT Global has also announced that Kessel will host some special invitation-only online poker events, offering players the opportunity to compete for VIP experiences both on and off the felt. One such event will be the upcoming Iron Man Tournament, set to take place on November 27, where players will have a chance to win a VIP package to the WPT World Championship in Las Vegas among other prizes.
READ MORE: 2024 WPT World Championship Schedule Revealed
Phil Kessel’s Iron Man Tournament on WPT Global
Set to take place on November 27 at 7 PM EST, Kessel’s exclusive, invite-only Iron Man Tournament will feature the following prizes:
- 1st Place: A VIP WPT World Championship Package, including travel to Las Vegas, accommodations, dinner and golf with Kessel, and a seat in the $10,400 WPT World Championship Main Event.
- 2nd-5th Place: Autographed Kessel jerseys.
- 6th-18th Place: Signed pucks or 8×10 photographs.
- Bounty Prize: The player who eliminates Kessel from the tournament will win a special package featuring a signed jersey, photo, puck, and a WPT Global swag bag, along with a personalized message from Kessel.
Players can receive an invite by registering on WPT Global with the promo code IRONKESSEL81 and making a deposit of $100 or more. Existing WPT Global players can participate by earning free tournament tickets through various promotions that will be announced shortly.
Bridging the Gap Between Sports and Poker
WPT Global’s signing of Kessel is a move that reflects the ongoing connection between poker and sports. In a uniquely fitting spot as both a beloved NHL star and passionate poker player, Kessel embodies the spirit of competition and community that both worlds share. Alex Scott, President of WPT Global, sees Kessel’s involvement as a natural fit for the platform.
“Phil has not only proven himself as a world-class hockey player but also as a true poker enthusiast who brings the same passion and dedication to the tables,” Scott said. “His ability to bridge these two worlds—sports and poker—is something we’re really excited about, and we can’t wait to create some unforgettable experiences for our players, especially in Canada.”
WATCH: Interview with WPT Global President Alex Scott
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