The EPT made an explosive debut in Italy last season with a massive field at Casino San Remo. Every seat in the house sold out as 701 players put up €5,000 or qualified online to compete for €3.1 million in cash. PokerStars qualifier Jason Mercier rose above the rest to capture the title and €869,000 in one of the final table battles of the season.

His tournament hinged on one jaw-dropping hand. Aggressive French player Eric Koskas had moved all-in on a board reading 5-J-6-8-8. Clutching only 9-5 and facing a make-or-break decision, Mercier went deep into the tank. After several agonising minutes, Mercier did the unthinkable. He slammed his cards down and made what looked like an impossible call with just bottom pair. Koskas turned to the crowd in disbelief, his stone cold bluff crushed by what he later described as the single best play he had ever seen.

With an online qualifier lifting the trophy and two more reaching the final table, it was a great week for PokerStars players. Team PokerStars Pro was out in force too, as the home crowd roared Italian superstar Dario Minieri all the way to third place.

QUALIFY ONLINE

This is your chance to compete with the world’s greatest players in one of Europe’s most spectacular cities. Play EPT satellites on PokerStars and take your seat for as little as $2.22 or 111 FPP. When you’re there, you can expect the full PokerStars experience – your package includes your buy-in, luxury accommodation and $1,000 to spend.

Finding our EPT satellites is easy. First, download the free PokerStars software. Then, click “Events” and “EPT” in the game lobby and register for the satellite of your choice. See our How To Qualify page for more information.

BUY IN DIRECTLY

If you're a PlatinumStar VIP or higher, you can buy in to EPT events using your PokerStars W$. Requests should be submitted to ept@pokerstars.com before the final online qualifying tournament on PokerStars (typically two Saturdays before the event).

You can also buy in at the Casino on the day of registration. For more details see the Tournament Info page. Players buying in using W$ will be PokerStars sponsored players for the duration of the EPT event, and are required to wear a PokerStars logo throughout the tournament.