The GPI POY 2026 in Latin America has already begun to take shape. Although the calendar is just entering its second month, the first part of the year is usually key in an annual race where consistency and event selection weigh as much as titles.
With data updated as of February 10, the Global Poker Index presented the first solid overview of the 2026 Player of the Year, revealing which players managed to capitalize on volume, planning, and high-impact results since January.
Giuseppe Iadisernia sets the pace at the start of the GPI POY 2026
Venezuelan Giuseppe Iadisernia
His leadership is based on two significant results obtained at the WPT Lucky Hearts Poker Open (LHPO), held in Hollywood, Florida, one of the most important festivals at the beginning of the year.
On January 16, 2026, Iadisernia took 1st place in the $3,500 No Limit Hold’em – Event #36, earning a prize of US$611,700 and accumulating 552.17 GPI points, the highest individual score achieved so far in the region.
A day earlier, on January 15, the Venezuelan had already shown his consistency with a 2nd place finish in the $25,500 No Limit Hold’em High Roller – Event #34, confirming volume, presence in top-tier tournaments, and the ability to sustain results in elite fields.
That double impact in January explains why, after just one month of competition, Iadisernia is the initial benchmark to follow in the race for Player of the Year.
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A diverse Top 10 with pressure from the start
The Top 10 of the GPI POY 2026 reflects an interesting mix of backgrounds, styles, and nationalities. Mexico, Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina, Colombia, Cuba, and Chile already have well-positioned representatives, a clear sign that the regional competition will be broad and demanding throughout the year.
Several of these players have already proven in previous seasons that they can maintain volume throughout the calendar, an essential requirement in a race defined by accumulation and not just isolated peaks.
Top 10 of the GPI POY 2026 – Latin America ranking
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
6th
7th
8th
9th
10th
Ariel Mantel, Carlos Bermúdez, and Philipe Pizzari.
Why this start to the GPI POY 2026 matters
In the Global Poker Index system, high buy-in tournaments with large fields can set the course for an entire season. Starting strong doesn’t guarantee the title, but it does provide strategic room to choose events, manage breaks, and maintain constant pressure on direct rivals.
February is still early, but this first Top 10 makes it clear that no one wants to give up ground, especially in an edition where the competitive bar is higher than ever.
The final challenge: ending Nacho Barbero’s reign
Beyond the current numbers, the GPI POY 2026 is being contested with an inevitable backdrop. Nacho Barbero
That sustained dominance makes every point a statement and elevates the value of every deep run. Leading today is important, but maintaining the pace throughout the year will be the true test for anyone aspiring to occupy the throne.
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The year is long, the throne is still occupied, and the hunt has already begun.