The European Poker Tour (EPT) Paris 2026 Main Event has been a thrilling spectacle, drawing a diverse and competitive field. Day 1B, in particular, showcased exceptional performances, with Mahersh Selvakumaran emerging as the standout player. His commanding chip lead sets the stage for an exciting continuation of the tournament.
Table of Contents
- Mahersh Selvakumaran's Dominant Performance
- Top Contenders from Day 1B
- Notable International Performances
- Tournament Overview and Future Prospects
- Conclusion
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Mahersh Selvakumaran's Dominant Performance
Mahersh Selvakumaran, hailing from the Netherlands, demonstrated remarkable skill and strategy during Day 1B of the EPT Paris Main Event. He concluded the day with an impressive stack of 448,500 chips, significantly ahead of his closest competitors. This achievement is particularly noteworthy considering the caliber of players participating in the event.
Selvakumaran's recent successes include two victories at EPT Prague in December, where he secured titles in both the €10,300 EPT High Roller and another event, amassing substantial winnings. His consistent performance underscores his status as a formidable contender in the poker world.
Top Contenders from Day 1B
The competition on Day 1B was fierce, with several players positioning themselves strongly for the upcoming stages. Endrit Geci from the United Kingdom amassed 348,500 chips, placing him second in the day's standings. Close behind was fellow Briton Graeme Newman, who secured 345,000 chips, thanks in part to a strategic double knockout with pocket jacks.
French players also made a significant impact. Gabriel Nahum ended the day with 334,500 chips, while Bruno Fuentes accumulated 316,500 chips, both placing them within the top five. Their performances highlight the strong presence of local talent in the tournament.
Notable International Performances
The international flavor of the EPT Paris Main Event was evident, with players from various countries making their mark. Portuguese player Luis Faria concluded Day 1B with 316,000 chips, placing him sixth in the day's rankings. His compatriot Manuel Carvalho also performed well, ending with 265,000 chips.
Other notable players advancing to Day 2 include Alec Torelli with 230,000 chips and Joris Ruijs with 213,000 chips. Their experience and skill add depth to the competitive field as the tournament progresses.
Tournament Overview and Future Prospects
The EPT Paris 2026 Main Event has attracted a total of 1,411 entries across the two starting flights, with 838 players participating on Day 1B alone. Of these, 284 have advanced to Day 2, bringing the total number of remaining players to 464. Late registration remains open until the start of Day 2, suggesting the field may expand further.
As the tournament moves forward, the competition is expected to intensify. The money bubble is anticipated to burst towards the end of Day 2, adding an extra layer of excitement and strategy to the proceedings. Players will need to navigate the challenges of increasing blinds and the pressure of approaching payouts.
Conclusion
Day 1B of the EPT Paris 2026 Main Event has set the stage for an enthralling continuation of the tournament. Mahersh Selvakumaran's commanding chip lead positions him as a key player to watch. However, with a field rich in talent and experience, the path to victory remains uncertain. Poker enthusiasts should stay tuned as the drama unfolds in the heart of Paris.
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