Global Entity WPT Global Intervenes to Secure The Chip Race Podcast's Future
Podcast's Poker Journey: The Chip Race Goes Global
Get ready, poker enthusiasts, because your favorite podcast is staying put! The Chip Race, the award-winning, radio-style show that's been a staple in the poker world since 2015, is stepping up its game with a fresh sponsor, WPT Global. This means you'll still be hearing the latest news, in-depth discussions, and guest appearances from industry legends!
But it wasn't all smooth sailing when their long-time sponsor, Unibet Poker, started experiencing bumpy waters and questioned their partnership. In mid-April, it was announced that sponsorship for The Chip Race would end June 1, 2025, leaving the show's future in question. Not only would the podcast lose its sponsor, but its spin-off, the more informal Lock-In, and the roles of co-hosts Dara O'Kearney and David Lappin as Unibet Poker ambassadors were also on the chopping block.
However, hard work pays off, and these poker pros wasted no time in finding a new partnership. Less than two months later, the duo and their cherished podcast portfolio will continue their journey, this time under WPT Global's flag.
WPT Global: A New Player on the Scene
With nary a hiccup, the transition from Unibet to WPT Global has been a breeze. Already, The Chip Race has locked in some stellar guests, and this Monday, fans can look forward to a new episode of The Lock-In featuring Triton Poker Super High Roller Series winner and WPT Global ambassador, Xuan Liu. Talk about timing – the episode drops just one day after the Unibet sponsorship is officially history!
"We've got a big international audience, and we want to bring them on this journey with us," explained co-host David Lappin. "We want them to sign up to the site, battle us at the tables, and hang out with us at WPT live stops."
Aside from thePodcast’s continued growth, this new partnership will also see O'Kearney and Lappin as WPT Global ambassadors for one year. You can expect to see these poker pros at WPT live stops soon, as they've attended the WPT World Championship every year since its inception and consider it the best event on the calendar.
"For me, it was a no-brainer," said Cameron Soane, WPT Global Online Marketing Manager for Ireland. "I've recently taken on the role of leading our online marketing operations in the Irish market, so it was a treat to hear that The Chip Race was coming available. We are thrilled that they've chosen to work with us, and we have big plans for our partnership in the second half of 2025. Brace yourself for some exciting announcements soon!"
Behind the Scenes at WPT Global
O'Kearney and Lappin are confident they can contribute their vast experience on and off the felt to their new team at WPT Global, including advice on tournament schedules, live events, and player experience.
"Expect much of the same, but new elements will include creation of short form content and skits," Lappin added. Fear not, though, that the pair's candor will be shackled by their new partnership. Lappin assures fans that they'll still be able to interview guests from various brands, including those outside WPT Global.
Many in the poker community welcome this partnership, as WPT Global excels in its efforts to cater to recreational players. Its software limits the number of 'pro' players at cash game tables, reducing predatory play and rewarding game-starters. With a rapidly growing player base and a focus on game security, WPT Global is proving to be a force to be reckoned with in the poker world.
So buckle up, poker fans – it's going to be an exciting ride! Keep an eye out for the wine-loving, unapologetically honest crew behind The Chip Race, as they continue to bring you the latest from the world of poker, all sponsored by the dynamic WPT Global.
The Chip Race, now sponsored by WPT Global, will continue to bring you the latest news, in-depth discussions, and guest appearances from industry legends, discussing various casino-games like poker. In this new partnership, co-hosts Dara O'Kearney and David Lappin will also serve as WPT Global ambassadors, likely participating in casino-games at WPT Global events and contributing to the creation of short form content showcasing casino-and-gambling activity.
