A quiet poker night at a bar in Soissons, France, has blossomed into a trip of a lifetime for Roman Barret. The 30-year-old has won a package to compete in the Main Event of the World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas this July, a prize secured through his victory in the RedCactus Poker National Final held in Nanterre on .
Barret, known in the RedCactus circuit as “Romamy,” isn’t a poker professional. His journey to the WSOP is a testament to the accessibility and grassroots nature of the RedCactus league, which emphasizes a community-based, live poker experience in French bars. He’s been honing his skills at La Bodega in Soissons since , steadily building his game through consistent play within the league’s structure.
The RedCactus Poker league, celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, has become a significant force in the French amateur poker scene. Founded by Céline Cauvin and Nicolas Carayon, the league distinguishes itself by offering a poker experience free from buy-ins, re-entries, and paid qualifications. This year’s National Final boasted over 1,000 players and a total prize pool exceeding €35,000, streamed live with cards-up for a broad audience.
Barret’s win is particularly noteworthy because he achieved this level of success without ever having to pay to play. He represents a new breed of poker champion – one cultivated entirely within a free-to-play environment. The victory underscores the league’s core philosophy: that dedication, consistent play, and a passion for the game can lead to significant achievements, even on a global stage like the WSOP.
“He’s not an online grinder converted, nor a regular in Parisian circles,” reports La Amateur de Poker, highlighting the unique path Barret has taken. His progression within the RedCactus system embodies the league’s values, proving that a player can rise through the ranks solely through commitment to the local circuit.
The stakes are high. The WSOP Main Event, held at the Rio – or now the Horseshoe – in Las Vegas, is considered the most prestigious tournament in the world. Barret will be facing off against the global poker elite, a challenge he’s prepared for after years of honing his skills in a more relaxed, community-focused setting.
Barret wasn’t the only winner from the RedCactus National Final. Two additional players also secured packages to the WSOP in Las Vegas, bringing the total number of WSOP packages awarded to three. Eight tickets to other major live tournaments were also distributed during the event, further solidifying RedCactus’s role in fostering the growth of live poker in France.
The RedCactus league’s success is evident in its expanding reach. Currently, it partners with 508 bars across 400 cities, and has recently expanded its presence to Belgium and Réunion Island. With over 125,000 registered players, the league continues to provide a unique and accessible entry point into the world of poker.
The league’s partnerships with PokerStars and Cartes Production allow it to offer significant opportunities to its players, including the coveted WSOP packages. This year’s anniversary event saw RedCactus innovate to mark the occasion, further enhancing the experience for its growing community.
Barret’s story is already resonating within the French poker community. He recently appeared on the RMC Poker Show alongside Daniel Riolo and Moundir, sharing his journey and inspiring others with his dedication and success. The question now is whether he can translate his success from the local circuit to the international stage, and become the first RedCactus player to cash in the WSOP Main Event.
The Francophone poker world is also taking notice, with the second edition of the Francophone Poker Awards recently opening votes. While the awards themselves don’t directly relate to Barret’s win, they demonstrate the growing recognition and celebration of poker achievements within the French-speaking community.
Roman Barret’s journey from a local bar in Soissons to the bright lights of Las Vegas is a compelling narrative of dedication, community, and the power of accessible poker. His story serves as an inspiration to amateur players across France, proving that with passion and perseverance, even the most ambitious dreams can be realized.
