Swiss federal law caps stakes and frequency of small poker tournaments
Regulation · SectorWire deskSource published
Source: Gespa (Switzerland) ·
Summary
Small-scale poker tournaments are permitted outside casinos in Switzerland, but federal law limits initial stakes and the number of tournaments per day and per venue, according to Gespa. Cantons authorise and supervise the events and must first establish a cantonal legal basis, which may add further restrictions.
Why it matters
Operators and venues outside casinos need cantonal authorisation and a cantonal legal basis before running small poker tournaments, with federal caps on stakes and frequency.
Cite as: SectorWire, “Swiss federal law caps stakes and frequency of small poker tournaments”, 22 January 2026, https://sectorwire.news/item/swiss-federal-law-caps-stakes-and-frequency-of-small-poker-tournaments/
Key facts
- Parties
- Gespa
- Market
- Switzerland