The World Poker Tour’s sweepstakes platform, ClubWPT Gold, is preparing to make its much-anticipated debut in Canada later this year, expanding its reach beyond the U.S. With recent announcements and social media teasers, including comments from brand ambassador Doug Polk, it appears that Canadian poker enthusiasts will soon have access to the platform’s exciting features. As confirmed by the WPT, a Canadian launch is expected later this fall, though official details are still under wraps.

A New Era for ClubWPT Gold

ClubWPT Gold was originally introduced in the U.S. in early 2025, with the platform offering a unique twist on traditional sweepstakes poker. The site allows players to participate in tournaments using two forms of currency: Gold Coins for free-to-play games and Sweeps Coins, which can be redeemed for real-money prizes. However, a recent shift in the platform’s approach has left many wondering what’s next for the platform, particularly as it looks to expand into new markets like Canada.

In a recent video, Doug Polk, a key ambassador for ClubWPT Gold, hinted at the platform’s Canadian launch, stating that Canada would hopefully be included soon. “We’ll have Canada, hopefully, at some point within a little bit here,” he said. This announcement, paired with social media interactions suggesting a launch later in the fall, has fueled speculation that Canadian players will soon be able to experience the platform’s innovative approach to poker.

Canadian Expansion: What to Expect

ClubWPT Gold’s entry into the Canadian market comes at an interesting time, with another key player, Global Poker, beginning to phase out its Canadian operations to focus on the U.S. The gap left by Global Poker’s exit presents an opportunity for ClubWPT Gold to step in and fill the void left for Canadian players seeking sweepstakes poker.

At present, ClubWPT Gold is not available in Canada, but the platform’s traditional subscription-based counterpart, ClubWPT, is widely accessible across the country. While ClubWPT is not a real-money poker site, it offers real-money prizes under the sweepstakes gaming model in eligible jurisdictions, including Canada.

Changes and New Features: Shifting Focus in the U.S. and Beyond

As part of its ongoing evolution, ClubWPT Gold recently announced a major change in the way it operates, particularly in the U.S. The platform has moved away from offering Gold Coins for free-to-play games and now focuses on poker training tools for users. Players can purchase the ability to analyze hands they’ve played on the site, and for each dollar spent on hand analysis, users receive chips that can be used in real poker tournaments, allowing them to win prizes of real value.

This shift comes amid increased scrutiny on dual-currency sweepstakes sites, with several U.S. states, including Montana and New Jersey, enacting bans on such platforms. This move also aligns with a larger trend in the sweepstakes gaming industry, as operators look to adapt to legal challenges and provide more value to players through education and training.

The Future of Poker in Canada

The timing of ClubWPT Gold’s potential launch in Canada couldn’t be more strategic. As Global Poker withdraws from the Canadian market, there is a growing need for an alternative platform offering sweepstakes poker. While it’s unclear whether Quebec or Ontario will be included in the initial launch, the absence of Global Poker means that a significant opportunity awaits ClubWPT Gold.

For Canadian players, this could be a fresh and exciting way to engage with poker, offering a platform that combines competitive tournament play with a chance to win real-money prizes. The platform’s recent pivot towards poker training and analytics tools could also attract players looking to improve their skills and play more strategically.

What’s Next for ClubWPT Gold?

As ClubWPT Gold teases its Canadian launch, players across the country are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to experience the platform’s fresh take on sweepstakes poker. With its combination of training features and innovative gameplay mechanics, it’s poised to be a key player in the Canadian online poker landscape, especially as Global Poker exits the market.

For now, Canadian players will have to wait for further updates, but the excitement is building for what’s to come. With the platform’s expansion into Canada, along with its ongoing improvements and new features, ClubWPT Gold is sure to make a lasting impact on the poker community.

Source:

ClubWPT Gold Teases Canadian Launch, canadiangamingbusiness.com, September 25, 2025