Seventh European event for the “national” circuit of the EPT, after those in Paris, Rozvadov, Madrid, Dublin, Monte Carlo and Namur, the historic Andalusian city staged 12 events in 7 days (10-16 June), capturing the attention of many players from the old continent (and beyond).
In particular the Italians who were the third largest team in Main Event, behind the obvious Spanish majority (180 players) and a lead from the British (63 to 62). Despite missing the final victory, the Azzurri of poker shone in the main event of the Iberian festival hosted by Gran Madrid/Casino Torrequebrada.
The Main Event it took place over five days (12-16/06): two dedicated to 5 qualifying flights (Day1A-E) and another three necessary to reach the awarding of the title (Day2, 3 and Final Day). Such a long structure is the result of the great interest, now consolidated, for this type of international competition.
In Malaga there were 1,146 registrations of €1,100 each (947 unique players), for a final net prizepool of €1,100,160. There were 167 positions in the money and here comes the good news for Italian poker enthusiasts.
The representatives of the Bel Paese have in fact conquered 19 cash placements, second best result after that obtained by the Spanish players (48). Spain then sent two players to the podium, but Italy defended itself brilliantly with 4 Italians present at the final table.
The 9-way sprint for the title started with the abundant chip lead of Artús Giménez: 12 million chips against 5.2 of the second, the Italian Guido Pieraccini). The Spaniard made the first player out, Pia Fransson. At 8 left he is out Giovanni Bellini in an Italian derby against Raffaele Sorrentino: JJ by Bellini vs 99 but “’raffibiza’” sets and eliminates his compatriot.
