From São Paulo to St. Julian’s: SPT Malta Sets the Stage for May 2026

Will Shillibier
Managing Editor
2 min read
SiGMA Poker Tour Malta

The SiGMA Poker Tour (SPT) is heading to Malta from May 27 to 31, 2026, promising a mix of professional poker and industry networking, with a €150,000 GTD Main Event headlining the festival.

Following the success of its recent event in São Paulo, it's returning to the Portomaso Casino in St. Julian’s.

The Portomaso Experience

The Portomaso Casino has previously hosted the European Poker Tour and the Malta Poker Festival, and players can expect a seamless experience on the SiGMA Poker Tour. While the focus is on the Main Event, the schedule is set to include various side events and satellites, with cash games running continuously based on player demand.

In September 2025, Italian resident Davide Iannaco secured his first major live title at the Portomaso Casino, taking home €28,500 after a grueling 12-hour final day. He triumphed over a field of 411 entries, defeating Tomasz Brzezinski in a two-hour heads-up battle.

More recently, in April 2026, the tour's South American stop saw local Brazilian player Mathias Guimarães claim the title in São Paulo. Guimarães outlasted 452 entries to win R$205,000 at the Monte Carlo Poker Club, securing his victory with a rivered flush in the final hand.

Mathias Guimarães

Tournament Logistics and Participation

Securing a seat is straightforward; players can choose between on-site registration or online booking to skip the queues. On-site buy-ins are accepted via cash or debit card, and late registration typically remains open until the end of Level 10. The tournament structure ensures a competitive yet rewarding experience, with payouts extending to the top 15% of the field. For those competing in multiple Day 1 flights, only the largest stack will be carried forward into Day 2.

Beyond the felt, the event emphasizes the "SiGMA touch" through comprehensive VIP packages. These include a five-night luxury stay at the official venue hotel, an unlimited 24/7 open bar at the casino during the tournament, and exclusive access to the broader SiGMA Europe conference. For those looking to expand their professional circle, the package offers entry to iGathering dinners and official celebration parties, where players often find themselves seated next to industry CEOs and founders.

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Will Shillibier
Managing Editor

Based in the United Kingdom, Will started working for PokerNews as a freelance live reporter in 2015 and joined the full-time staff in 2019. He now works as Managing Editor. He graduated from the University of Kent in 2017 with a B.A. in German. He also holds an NCTJ Diploma in Sports Journalism.

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