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The Global Poker Awards are making a comeback after a one-year hiatus, with organizers confirming a new venue for the 2026 ceremony. The Global Poker Index and The Hendon Mob announced that the event will take place on Dec. 4 at Baha Mar in the Bahamas, coinciding with WSOP Paradise.
This marks the first time since 2019 that the awards show will not be held in Las Vegas. From 2019 through its most recent edition, the ceremony was hosted inside the PokerGO Studio at ARIA Las Vegas.
The awards were first launched in Europe back in 2001 before relocating to Los Angeles in 2014. In November 2025, organizers scrapped that year’s edition, citing the lengthy preparation and production process required to stage the show.
WSOP Paradise itself has also shifted locations, moving to Baha Mar after previously being held at Atlantis Paradise Island in recent years.
This year’s nomination categories reflect a shift away from industry-focused honors. Awards such as Best Podcast, Best Poker Book, Best Industry Person and Best Media Content have been dropped, though Best Live Streamer and Best Vlogger remain. New player-focused categories have been added, including Best Villain, Best Table Mate and multiple Most Feared Player distinctions.
Organizers said the change places greater emphasis on recognizing standout performances from the international poker circuit over the past year. Past winners have included Adrian Mateos, Abby Merk, Nikki Limo and Alejandro Lococo, with PokerNews previously earning multiple nominations as well.
