Like many Western European countries, France has a poker culture nearly rivaling that of the U.S.
Its online poker laws cut players off from the global pool, yet allow networking with other EU countries. France has linked up with Spain and Portugal to produce a ring-fenced market of about 130 million people. Serving that market are several international operators plus France’s home-grown Winamax, which holds the honor of having invented the jackpot sit-and-go format with a game called Expresso.
France is also a popular destination for live poker events, especially the EPT Paris.
Perhaps the best-known pro to have come out of France is Bertrand Grospellier, better known by his gaming handle ElkY. However, the high-rolling amateur Jean-Noel Thorel holds the country’s record for gross winnings, at $21 million as of 2025.
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