PokerStars' Cedric Billot Looks Back at His Two-Decade Love Affair with the EPT

As the PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) celebrates its monumental 20th anniversary at EPT Barcelona, it's a celebratory moment not just for the poker landscape but for the individuals who've been pivotal in its journey. Among these key players is Cedric Billot, the Associate Director of Live Events Operations for PokerStars, who has watched the EPT grow from its nascent stages.

Billot, self-described as an "EPT kid," reminisces about his long-standing relationship with the tour, which began when he was just a fervent poker enthusiast, dreaming of one day making it to the EPT tables. "EPT means 20 years of my goddamn life," he says with a chuckle, highlighting the tour's significance beyond just a series of poker tournaments to him—it represented the ultimate dream, a beacon of aspiration that seemed more attainable than even the World Series of Poker (WSOP).

"The EPT was the tournament that put sparkles in my eyes more than the World Series," Billot recalls. His journey from a hopeful player to a key figure in leading the EPT's operations is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game.

The Evolution of the EPT: Challenges and Triumphs

Billot's tenure with the EPT has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, notably when the brand was briefly shelved. In 2017, PokerStars made the controversial decision to discontinue the EPT, a move that Billot did not support, leading to his temporary departure from the company. However, the poker community's demand for the return of the EPT was undeniable, and PokerStars swiftly reinstated the tour, a decision Billot wholeheartedly applauds.

The Flutter Era: A New Chapter for the EPT

The acquisition of PokerStars by Flutter Entertainment marked a new era for the EPT. Billot acknowledges that while the EPT has always been a powerhouse brand, Flutter's stewardship has infused new life into the tour, particularly in valuing live events. "Flutter values live events, maybe even more than the previous owners," he notes, highlighting the importance of live events in building trust, generosity, and content creation.

Memorable Moments and Future Aspirations

Reflecting on two decades of EPT history, Billot cherishes countless memories, from witnessing Jason Mercier's rise at EPT Sanremo to Bertrand "ElkY" Grospellier's victory at the PCA in 2008. Yet, it's the emotional victory of Sebastian Malec at the 2016 EPT Barcelona that stands out for its raw display of passion and the essence of what makes the EPT so special.

Looking ahead, Billot dreams of expanding the EPT's legacy, a vision partly realized with the successful launch of EPT Paris in 2023. "We knew it would be a hit if we could make EPT Paris one day. And it was," he beams, proud to bring the prestigious tour to the French capital.

As the EPT embarks on its next 20 years, under the guidance of Flutter Entertainment and with Billot at the helm of its operations, the tour is poised to continue being a dream-making factory and a creator of unforgettable memories in the poker world.