This weekend, the Nice stop took place at the Palais des Expositions, bringing together 773 players ready to compete in an electrifying atmosphere.
The Winamax Poker Tour gathers thousands of enthusiasts each year around a shared dream: to earn a ticket to the grand finale. With its 100% free online qualifications and live stages throughout the country, this circuit offers a unique opportunity for all amateurs to measure up against the best.
Upon entering the room, the atmosphere is palpable. Concentrated gazes, nervous hands adjusting stacks of chips, and each card dealt ignites murmurs. The mix is expertly balanced: amateurs discovering live play, seasoned semi-pros, and familiar faces like Moundir, a professional player and iconic member of Team Winamax. “This tournament is an exceptional chance for amateurs. They experience a unique moment, and again this year, the atmosphere is incredible,” he shares between hands.
Around the tables, profiles intermingle. Laurent, a Swiss living in Antibes, dreams of making a career out of poker. Semi-pro for several years, he passionately recounts his journey: “This tournament is a massive challenge. You have to adapt, especially against players coming from online. They talk a lot, play differently, sometimes with less focus. But I’m here to win.”
The exchanges between players create a true symphony of competition and camaraderie. Here, a daring bluff has brought a smile to an entire table. There, a player clenches their fists after a decisive all-in. Moundir highlights this unique spirit: “What’s fascinating is that amateurs often play with instinct. It makes them unpredictable, and for us pros, it’s a real challenge. But that’s what makes the tournament so lively.”
An experienced organization and opportunities for all players
The Winamax Poker Tour offers many opportunities even after elimination. Two side events (repรชchage tournaments: Ed.) allow players to continue and earn a spot in the grand finale in Aix-en-Provence. The Shootout, in two phases, requires finishing first at two tables of ten players, while the Six-Max, with its reduced tables of six participants, favors a quick and strategic approach. In total, the Nice stop qualifies 16 players for the national finale in March.
Behind the organization, Guillaume Gleize, tournament director, emphasizes the importance of anticipation: “We manage the equipment, the tables, and adjust as needed. A few disputes arise, but the atmosphere remains excellent.” Thanks to well-mastered logistics, the tournament guarantees an immersive experience, paced by the competition and excitement of the tables.
Damien, first qualified for the grand finale thanks to the Shootout
For Damien, 35, from Saint-Raphaรซl, the Nice stop will be etched in his memory. After careful management and some decisive hands, he emerged victorious in the Shootout tournament, thus earning his ticket to the grand finale in Aix-en-Provence. “I tried to stay patient and not get too excited too quickly,” explains Damien. “It paid off. Now, the goal is Aix. It will be a great experience because I’m not used to playing buy-ins that high.” Despite his amateur status, Damien shows unfailing motivation and overflowing enthusiasm: “The Winamax Poker Tour is an incredible adventure, and playing the finale will be a privilege.”
Damien will not be alone representing the Nice stop at the grand finale in Aix-en-Provence. He is joined by 15 other players, including 13 from the Main Event and 2 from the Six-Max (repรชchage tournaments: Ed.), bringing the total to 16 qualified who are ready to try their luck to claim the coveted title.
