WSOP Introduces Controversial COVID-19 Rule: Players Fear Removal Without Compensation

The World Series of Poker (WSOP) has introduced a new rule allowing organizers to remove players showing signs of illness without compensation. This rule, known as the "covid rule" 115, has sparked controversy among players who fear they could be removed from tournaments without any compensation, even if they are not ill themselves.

Daniel Negreanu analyzed his hand against Nikita Bodiakovsky from a recent $5k 6-max WSOP online tournament. The new rule allows organizers to disqualify any player who tests positive for COVID-19, as well as those who have been in contact with such a player. Many players have stated they will not participate under these conditions, fearing they could be removed without compensation.

The WSOP clarified that vaccinated players without symptoms will not be removed if they have been in contact with an infected person. However, concerns remain about the logistics of enforcing this rule, especially regarding vaccine verification. Daniel Negreanu mentioned that Caesars has the legal right to blacklist any player without explanation. Terence Chen expressed concern about the logistics of enforcing the new rule, especially regarding vaccine verification.