The Global Poker Awards will return in 2020 to laud the achievements of even more players and industry professionals.
Following a successful first outing in 2019, next year’s event will feature even more glitz, glamour, and awards.
According to a recent press release from the Global Poker Index (GPI) and Poker Central, “more than 20” industry members will win something in 2020.
Global Poker Stars to Light Up Las Vegas
In keeping with tradition, the Global Poker Awards will take place at the PokerGO Studio at ARIA Resort & Casino, Las Vegas. Ahead of the March 6 ceremony, a panel of judges will weigh in on who should win awards such as Moment of the Year and Streamer of the Year.
To give the event something extra, and address issues raised ahead of the 2019 ceremony, new categories have been added. Although the press release didn’t provide a full breakdown of the categories, one new addition will be the Player’s Choice Award for Best All-Around Poker Player.
One criticism of the inaugural Global Poker Awards was the nomination process. Although Poker Central defended its position (see below), certain nominees didn’t seem to fit the mold.
Statement regarding the Global Poker Awards pic.twitter.com/ykZZssfsjC
— Global Poker Index (@gpi) March 20, 2019
Most notable was Doug Polk and the Vlogger of the Year category. Despite being a prolific vlogger in the past, he put out, by his own admission, zero video blogs during the year in focus (2018).
I do hope to win best vlogger for 2018, for my combined 0 vlogs put out 😂
These awards are a total joke. https://t.co/bssxDx1EYH
— Doug Polk (@DougPolkVids) March 18, 2019
Brad Owen was perhaps the most vocal critic, and even made his feelings known during an acceptance speech at the 2019 ceremony.
Hey @gpi what in the fuck do I have to do to get nominated for this "Vlogger of the Year" category? Probably wouldn't be upset if there weren't people nominated who don't even make poker vlogs: https://t.co/c97CNSmfTW
— Brad Owen (@TheBradOwen) March 18, 2019
Taking the comments on board, Poker Central and the GPI have not only created more categories, but also “updated” the voting process.
Global Poker Awards Reacts to Feedback
How things will change in 2020 isn’t yet clear. However, the awards organizers have stated that fans will have more say in the process.
“Winners of the 2020 awards will be determined via an updated voting process led by a panel of experts in each category, as well as through a system of fan voting in several categories,” reads the Dec. 3 press release.
Teething troubles aside, the 2019 Global Poker Awards was largely a success. The decision to amalgamate European and North American awards made for a larger spectacle that players and fans watching online enjoyed.
As is the case with all award ceremonies, some people will always be unhappy. However, with the GPI and Poker Central aiming to make poker a form of mainstream entertainment, a little controversy only adds to interest to these events.
