World Poker Tour signs Multi-Season Broadcast and Promotional Agreement with Fox Sports Network

Officials of the World Poker Tour (WPT) and Fox Sports Network (FSN) announced today a multi-season broadcast and promotional agreement for the distribution of the WPT Seasons 9, 10, and 11 starting in January 2011.

“This season promises to be unlike any previous incarnations of the WPT. The shows will be faster-paced and edgier, featuring the biggest names in poker mixing it up with more up-and-coming stars, pre-final table action and, as always, poker’s greatest and most recognizable play-by-play commentary team of Mike Sexton and Vince Van Patten.” said Steve Heller, CEO of WPT.

The new agreement features prime time airtimes of 8:00 PM and 11:00 PM on Sunday nights, as well as multiple re runs throughout the week. WPT Season 9 will premiere with its 179th episode in January 2011. Viewers will find a host of new enhancements to the series, including the debut of Kimberly Lansing in a new role as show anchor , plus the a new analyst, who will host a recurring segment called “The Raw Deal.”. Also new for season 9 is the addition of a new tour stop at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida; and the introduction of the Royal Flush Girls, who serve as on-set ambassadors and on-air fixtures for all of the WPT domestic stops.

“FSN is excited to remain the home for The World Poker Tour, which continues to deliver great ratings for our affiliates. WPT is one of the most respected brands in poker and will only grow stronger with the tremendous innovations they are bringing to the show in the new season. Our network has long been a showcase for the best poker on television, and we are very happy WPT will continue that tradition.” commented FSN VP of Programming David Sussin.