The WSOP Circuit just got a major upgrade. Starting in 2026, the circuit shifts to a permanent calendar-year schedule running January through December. No more confusing split seasons or wondering when the "new season" begins.

The first series of 2026? Already underway at Planet Hollywood on the Las Vegas Strip.

Planet Hollywood: January 1-12

The 2026 WSOP Circuit kicked off New Year's Day at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. The series features:

• 18 ring events
• Buy-ins ranging from $400 to $1,700
• Main Event with multiple Day 1 flights
• Convenient Strip location

If you're in Vegas for CES or just escaping the cold, the timing couldn't be better. Ring events run through January 12.

January 2026 Schedule

The circuit isn't wasting any time. Here's where you can chase gold rings this month:

Seven stops in one month. The circuit is grinding.

Why Calendar Year Matters

The shift to calendar year format brings several advantages:

Clarity: Everyone knows when the season starts and ends. No more tracking split seasons.

Leaderboard Competition: Full 12-month race for Player of the Year from January to December.

Planning: Players can map out their entire year knowing the schedule.

Sponsorship: Aligned with traditional business cycles for potential partners.

For serious circuit grinders, the new format makes it easier to plan a full year of tournament travel.

The Road to the Main Event

WSOP Circuit stops serve as feeders to the summer's Main Event in Las Vegas. Ring winners earn seats to invitation-only events, and consistent performers rack up points toward the Global Casino Championship.

The summer Main Event runs May 26 to July 15 at Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas. Circuit success in the first half of the year builds momentum heading into poker's biggest stage.

Ring Event Strategy

For recreational players looking to win their first ring:

Target smaller buy-ins: The $400-$600 events draw softer fields than the Main Events.

Play early flights: Day 1A of multi-flight events typically has weaker competition.

Study the structure: WSOP Circuit structures are faster than WPT events. Adjust your strategy accordingly.

Regional stops: Smaller casino stops (Tunica, Durant) often have weaker fields than Vegas.

2026 Circuit Predictions

Based on the schedule, expect to see:

• Increased international participation with stops in Czechia and Morocco
• More ring events overall as the calendar-year format allows better planning
• Potential new stops as the circuit expands
• Higher prize pools as poker's post-pandemic boom continues

The Summer Main Event

While the circuit provides year-round action, the ultimate goal is Vegas in the summer:

WSOP 2026: May 26 - July 15 Location: Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas Main Event: Dates TBA, likely late June/early July

The circuit is the warm-up. Summer is the main event.

The Bottom Line

The WSOP Circuit's calendar-year shift makes 2026 the most organized circuit season yet. Whether you're grinding regional stops or making Vegas trips, there's a ring event waiting for you.

Planet Hollywood's series runs through January 12. If you're in Vegas, go chase that ring.

Full WSOP Circuit 2026 schedule available at WSOP.com. Check individual casino websites for registration details.