A star-studded field of 105 of the planet’s top players entered the first event at the inaugural World Series of Poker Europe Presented by Betfair.com, staged at The Casino at The Empire, London Clubs International’s newest casino in Leicester Square.

Play began at 2pm with a three-day, £2,500 HORSE tournament. Many of the world’s highest-ranked professionals entered, including poker legends Doyle Brunson, Johnny Chan and Phil Hellmuth Jr. Play continues through 16 September, with £5,000 Pot Limit Omaha and £10,000 No Limit Hold'em events commencing later this week.

Much of the intrigue centers around whether the visiting American superstars can win the first-ever World Series of Poker championship contested outside Las Vegas. A leading European pro, Marcel Luske, was the first player eliminated from the H.O.R.S.E. field, but other Europeans are doing well, in particular Marc Goodwin, who is well placed as play moves into the second day.

“We’re thrilled to be here and join with players from around the world to make poker history,” said WSOP Commissioner Jeffrey Pollack. “Betfair.com shares our vision for creating a new poker tradition in Europe and we appreciate the warm welcome and support we’ve received from poker fans, the City of London and the City of Westminster.”

“The World Series of Poker in Las Vegas has grown from six players to more than 54,000 in the past 38 years,” Pollack said, “and the turnout here in London is just the beginning for the WSOP Europe. We are committed to Europe for years to come.”