The World Series of Poker (WSOP) announced its newest presenting sponsor on Wednesday – the Solana Foundation.
Solana is a public blockchain that was founded in 2018 and launched in 2020. It has since become the seventh-biggest network by market cap, which is currently more than $36 billion.
The partnership goes beyond sponsorship, bringing cryptocurrency directly into the player ecosystem.
Starting today, for the first time in WSOP history, players will be able to buy into events using Solana, powered by MoonPay's payment infrastructure. WSOP said no processing fees will apply to this new payment method.
The WSOP announced the news with a new colorway for its TV stage – which will remain in place until the start of the Main Event on July 2 – with presenters also donning Solana purple for the daily Countdown show.
Easy, instant payouts
Solana's integration will expand later this year at WSOP Paradise in The Bahamas.
There, players will be able to receive payouts in stablecoins on Solana, alleviating much of the friction that plagues international tournament settlements. The WSOP said the system could provide near-instant access to payouts.
The crossover between the poker and cryptocurrency communities is well-established, and Solana is looking to strengthen this by sponsoring a group of players at the 2026 WSOP.
In addition, Solana will play host to exclusive hospitality events at the Horseshoe and Paris casinos this summer, along with similar events at WSOP Paradise later this year.
"We are incredibly proud to bring such an innovative and passionate community into the fold," said Ty Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of WSOP.
"Solana’s ecosystem, like the WSOP, constantly challenges conventions and remains laser-focused on the consumer experience. Solana’s speed and efficiency mirror the fast-paced energy of our tournaments, and we are excited to showcase their technology to our global audience."
