WSOP Eliminates Time Clocks for Main Event Final Table
The WSOP withdraws the use of time clocks for the Main Event final table after discussions with players and tournament staff.
Key Takeaways
- WSOP eliminates time clocks for the final table of the Main Event.
- The decision was made in consultation with players and tournament staff.
- Daniel Negreanu promotes discussion on the change on social media.
The World Series of Poker (WSOP) has decided to eliminate the use of time clocks for the final table of the Main Event, after having implemented them during Day 7 of the event in 2026. This initial measure was taken after a player took 17 minutes on a crucial play on Day 6, attempting to secure a payout increase. While time clocks are common in tournament poker, the decision to introduce them midway through the year's most significant event generated controversy.
Decision and Controversy
The use of time clocks, or time bank cards, was adopted according to the official WSOP rules, specifically Section 80, which allows organizers to implement a "time clock for players" at any stage of a tournament. Despite criticism from the community, the WSOP maintained the clocks during Days 7 and 8, until the field was reduced to a final table of nine players.
Official Statement and Gameplay Environment
On Thursday night, the WSOP announced on social media that, after discussions with players and tournament staff, they opted not to use time clocks at the final table: "Our goal is to create the most natural gameplay environment possible." Players can call the clock if they believe an opponent is taking too long to act. Tournament staff also has the authority to call the clock, but only in exceptional circumstances.
Community Reactions
Opinions on this decision have flooded social media. Daniel Negreanu, ambassador for GGPoker, launched a poll among his followers on X. While he reserved his opinions, others like Patrick Leonard and Adam Hendrix supported the removal of the clocks. Leonard, who had a noteworthy performance, remarked that those who saved time to use would not be pleased. Barny Boatman also endorsed the decision.
It is anticipated that in the coming days, more comments will emerge from notable figures in the poker community, and PokerOrg is on standby to cover these reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the WSOP decide to remove the time clocks?
The WSOP decided to remove the time clocks after consultations with players and staff, seeking to create a more natural playing environment for the final table of the Main Event.
When did the WSOP implement the time clocks?
The time clocks were implemented during Day 7 of the Main Event 2026 due to a player taking 17 minutes on a crucial play.
How did the poker community react to this decision?
The decision generated various opinions within the community. Figures like Patrick Leonard and Adam Hendrix supported the removal, while it has been widely discussed on social media.
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About the author
Sofía Carrasco
Poker Correspondent
Sofía Carrasco covers live and online poker — tournament series from the WSOP and EPT to the daily room grind, promotions, and the industry moves behind them. The reports keep every score, pot, and player name exactly as the record shows, and follow the story past the final hand: who qualified, what the structure rewarded, and how the field is shifting. For player moves, software, and regulation across the poker economy, Sofía Carrasco is the first read.
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