Poker expert Alan Bowden is not surprised to see Hungary hosting its first ever European Poker Tour (EPT) event this week.
The editor of InsidePoker magazine said that Budapest is a "perfect fit" for major tournaments of this kind, because a growing number of eastern European players are achieving high standards in the game.
EPT Budapest is taking place at the Hungarian capital's Las Vegas Casino from October 28th to November 1st, with 500 players competing for the €4,350 (£3,475) prize pool.
Describing eastern Europe countries as a "key growth area for poker", Mr Bowden said the popularity of the game in that region is evidence of its enduring appeal around the world.
"Everyone is really interested in getting new players into the game [and] increasing the global reach of the game, and Budapest is a great city," he commented.
"Poker continuously proves its popularity worldwide."
Earlier this year, Hungarian player Valdemar Kwaysser won $274,103 (£217,025) by taking down the first Latin American Poker Tour event in Costa Rica.
Poker expert Alan Bowden is not surprised to see Hungary hosting its first ever European Poker Tour (EPT) event this week.