2026 EPT Monte Carlo PokerStars Open Main Event Day1cd Begins
The 2026 European Poker Tour EPT Monte Carlo stop is underway, with the PokerStars Open Main Event buy-in €1,650 starting on Day1cd as hundreds of players compete for advancement.
2026 EPT Monte Carlo is in full swing, with the PokerStars Open Main Event (buy-in €1,650) entering Day1cd. As a key component of the EPT series, this tournament attracts poker enthusiasts from around the globe.
Tournament Overview
The PokerStars Open Main Event is one of the core tournaments of EPT Monte Carlo, with a starting buy-in of €1,650. Day1 is divided into several flights; Day1cd are the final two starting days, where players compete today for a seat into Day2.
Format
- Buy-in: €1,650 (~$1,800)
- Starting chips: Typically 30,000 or 50,000 (exact amount confirmed onsite)
- Level duration: According to the schedule, early levels are 40–60 minutes
- Structure: 4 Day1 flights, each playing multiple levels; survivors combine into Day2
Historical Background
The EPT Monte Carlo stop began in 2005 and is one of the most prestigious poker series in Europe. As the main sponsor, PokerStars has long hosted open events in the series, offering amateur players high-value opportunities to compete. In past years, the champion's prize often exceeded €200,000.
Highlights
- Field size: Total entries expected to exceed 1,000
- Notable players: Several EPT champions and WSOP gold bracelet winners have already advanced from earlier Day1 flights; Day1cd will see more professionals join
- Prize pool: Guaranteed €1,000,000, with the top 15% finishing in the money
As of this writing, Day1cd is underway, and the final list of qualifiers will be announced after play concludes.