UK legend quits role as EPT CEO
When John Duthie helped establish the European Poker Tour back in 2004, few imagined quite how high it would raise the bar for big-money poker tournaments the world over. But following Duthie’s announcement earlier this week that he would be severing ties with long-time sponsor PokerStars and stepping down as the EPT CEO, the fate of Europe’s premier poker tour now rests in new hands.
Duthie’s contract with PokerStars expired on New Year’s eve, and after JP Kelly’s recent exit from the mega site, Duthie is the latest UK pro to pack his bags, leaving Liv Boeree, Jude Ainsworth and Vicky Coren flying the flag for Team Pro UK.
But the news barely had time to settle before Duthie announced on TwoPlusTwo that it was ‘time to move on and to leave the EPT in the capable hands of the existing management team.’
‘It has been a fascinating and challenging seven years and I have watched the EPT grow phenomenally in that time, thanks to the support of the players and the professionalism of a great team on the ground,’ he added.
‘There are going to be some amazing opportunities coming up in 2012/13 as the US market prepares to open up for business once again and I want to be available to take on new challenges and to cement new relationships moving forward.’
As well as being revered as one of poker’s true legends, Duthie’s more than backed up his cult status over the years with an impressive $2,774,963 in career earnings, including his memorable win at the 2000 Poker Million and several deep runs in bracelet events.
The news comes as poker’s biggest stars make their way to Paradise Island for the 2012 PCA. Check back with PokerPlayer to see how the big guns get on.
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