ABEMA Launches First-Ever 'Poker Channel', Exclusively and Free Live Stream WSOP 2026

ABEMA Launches 'POKER Channel' – Exclusive Free Broadcast of WSOP 2026

AbemaTV, Japan’s leading internet TV platform, recently announced the launch of its first dedicated 'POKER Channel', which will exclusively and freely broadcast the world’s largest poker event – the 2026 World Series of Poker (WSOP). This move marks a significant breakthrough in poker broadcasting in Japan.

About WSOP

The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is the most prestigious poker tournament series globally. Founded in 1970, it is held annually in Las Vegas during the summer. The series includes dozens of different formats, with the Main Event renowned for its multi-million-dollar prize pool and champion’s gold bracelet. WSOP is considered the pinnacle of poker competition, attracting top players from around the world.

ABEMA's 'POKER Channel'

ABEMA is one of Japan’s largest internet TV platforms, operating multiple vertical channels. The newly established 'POKER Channel' will focus on poker content, including live tournament broadcasts, instructional programs, and celebrity interviews. ABEMA stated that the channel will operate year-round, with the WSOP 2026 broadcast serving as its core offering.

According to public information, ABEMA has secured exclusive free broadcast rights for WSOP 2026 in Japan. This means Japanese viewers can watch the entire event, including the Main Event final table, free of charge on the ABEMA platform. This is the first time a Japanese platform has offered such large-scale free live coverage of a poker tournament.

Significance for the Japanese Poker Community

For a long time, Japanese poker fans have mainly watched WSOP through overseas streaming services or paid platforms, facing issues such as language barriers and inconvenient access. ABEMA’s free broadcast will lower the barrier to entry and is expected to promote the growth of poker culture in Japan. In addition, ABEMA plans to add Japanese commentary and localized content to further enhance the viewing experience.

Future Outlook

Although the specific schedule for WSOP 2026 has not yet been announced, ABEMA has already begun promotional activities, including a series of poker instructional programs. Industry observers generally believe that this move will attract more Japanese viewers to poker and may stimulate the development of both online and offline poker activities in Japan.

Note: This article is based on ABEMA’s official announcement and public WSOP information. Specific broadcast dates and content are subject to actual programming.