The Campeonato de España de Poker (CEP) by PokerStars is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary with a thrilling series of events at Casino Barcelona from March 4 to March 15, 2026. As Spain's longest-running poker circuit, the CEP has been a cornerstone of the national poker scene, and this milestone season promises to be a memorable one for players and fans alike.
Table of Contents
- Key Events and Schedule Highlights
- Special Prizes and Promotions
- Historical Context and Recent Records
- Looking Ahead: The 2026 Season
- Conclusion
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Over the past two decades, the CEP has hosted 143 events across 20 cities, attracting nearly 50,000 entries in its Main Events. Casino Barcelona has traditionally been the launchpad for each season, and the 2026 edition is no exception. The upcoming series will feature a comprehensive schedule of 10 events, including the highly anticipated €500 buy-in Main Event, which is expected to draw a substantial field. (blog.casinobarcelona.com)
Key Events and Schedule Highlights
The 2026 CEP Barcelona offers a diverse range of tournaments catering to various player preferences. The series kicks off with the Opening Event on March 5, followed by a series of satellites and side events leading up to the Main Event. Notable tournaments include:
- Opening Event (€330): March 5–8
- High Roller (€1,000): March 9–11
- Main Event (€500): March 10–15
- Mini CEP (€250): March 14–15
In addition to these, players can participate in the Mystery Bounty (€160) and 6-Max (€250) tournaments, among others. The full schedule includes various satellites, providing ample opportunities for players to secure their seats in the marquee events. (blog.casinobarcelona.com)
Special Prizes and Promotions
To commemorate its 20th anniversary, PokerStars is adding over €50,000 in extra prizes throughout the series. These include four Gold Power Path passes and six Silver passes, offering players additional incentives and rewards. The top seven finishers in the Main Event will receive extra prizes alongside their cash winnings, enhancing the value of deep runs in the tournament. (pokernews.com)
Historical Context and Recent Records
The CEP Barcelona has a rich history of record-breaking events. In August 2025, the Main Event attracted 2,182 entries, setting a new attendance record for the series. Matías Arroyo emerged victorious in that event, taking home €86,875 after a three-handed deal. Earlier in March 2025, Filip Fisz claimed the Main Event title, besting a field of 1,192 entries and securing €63,000 following a heads-up deal. (blog.casinobarcelona.com)
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Season
Following the Barcelona stop, the 2026 CEP season will continue with events in Murcia, Madrid, Málaga, and Perelada. Each location offers unique experiences and challenges, contributing to the circuit's appeal among both amateur and professional players. The full schedule is as follows:
- CEP Barcelona – Casino Barcelona: March 4–15
- CEP Murcia – Orenes Gran Casino Murcia: April 8–12
- CEP Madrid – Casino Torrelodones: May 26–31
- CEP Barcelona – Casino Barcelona: August 3–16
- CEP Málaga – Casino Torrequebrada: September 22–27
- CEP Perelada – Casino Perelada: November 25–29
This lineup underscores the CEP's commitment to providing a comprehensive and engaging poker experience across Spain. (blog.casinobarcelona.com)
Conclusion
The 20th anniversary of the Campeonato de España de Poker by PokerStars is poised to be a landmark season, beginning with the exciting series at Casino Barcelona. With a robust schedule, substantial prizes, and a rich history of record-breaking events, the 2026 CEP Barcelona is a must-attend for poker enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an aspiring player, this series offers an unparalleled opportunity to compete at the highest level and be part of Spanish poker history.
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