The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) proudly announces the World Poker Federation (WPF) as its ninth affiliate member, marking a historic milestone in the evolution of mind sports. This full-time membership, conferred during IMSA’s Annual General Assembly in Sao Paolo, Brazil, solidifies poker’s standing as one of the world’s leading intellectual sports.
IMSA, established in 2005, has been at the forefront of promoting mind sports globally, advocating for games that demand strategic thinking, problem-solving, and mental agility. Its affiliate members include esteemed federations such as the World Bridge Federation (WBF), International Federation of Chess (FIDE), World Draughts Federation (WDF), Mahjong International League (MIL), International Go Federation (IGF), World Xiangqi Federation (WXF), International Esports Federation (IESF) and Federation of Card Games (FCG).
World Poker Federation Becomes the 9th Affiliate Member of the International Mind Sports Association
The addition of the WPF culminates a journey that began in December 2022, when WPF was granted provisional membership. Over the past two years, WPF leaders and their affiliates have worked relentlessly to protect, promote, and establish poker as a recognized mind sport.
“This achievement is not just a win for poker but a victory for the global mind sports community,” said the IMSA President. “It highlights poker’s intellectual depth and its rightful place among other prestigious mind sports disciplines.”
The WFP’s mission to strengthen poker as a sport includes building partnerships with governments and international institutions to develop standardized rules, promote regulation, and ensure the game’s ethical and sustainable growth. With IMSA’s recognition, poker is further acknowledged as a discipline combining intellect, strategy, and decision-making under pressure — hallmarks of the world’s greatest mind sports.
This membership paves the way for new opportunities across the poker community. Players gain expanded career pathways, enhanced recognition, and a broader international stage. The workforce supporting the game benefits from increased industry stability and growth.
Mind sports, including poker, offer remarkable cognitive benefits that contribute to mental agility and well-being. These games enhance strategic thinking, sharpen problem-solving skills, and improve pattern recognition. By encouraging players to recall past moves and anticipate opponents’ actions, they also promote memory retention and recall. Mind sports demand sustained concentration and focus, reducing distractions and improving mental clarity. Beyond cognitive development, they offer an engaging way to unwind, reducing stress and boosting overall mental health. As a holistic mental workout, mind sports are invaluable for cultivating a healthier and more agile mind.
The recognition of poker as an affiliate member of IMSA is a collective achievement for federations, players, and professionals worldwide. By uniting efforts across five continents, poker is firmly established as a mind sport, paving the way for broader recognition and exciting opportunities on the global stage.