Meetup Poker founder Michel Ruh in an exclusive interview with PokerExklusiv

Over the past few years, Meetup Poker has transformed from an insider tip into one of the largest German-speaking community poker festivals. For PokerExklusiv, Potti sat down with founder Michel Ruh to discuss how it all started, why the community aspect is the heart of Meetup Poker, and what participants can expect at the festival in September, as well as what they can look forward to already.

Potti: Michel, many readers might hear the name Meetup Poker for the very first time today. How would you explain what it’s all about in two or three sentences?Michel: Meetup Poker is much more than just a poker trip or festival. We connect people who share the same passion and create events where community, emotions, and unforgettable moments are at the forefront.Potti: When did you actually come up with the idea for Meetup Poker – and was there a specific moment when you thought: “This is exactly what’s missing in the poker scene”?Michel: I have always loved playing poker passionately, and it was always my dream to turn my hobby into a profession. I quickly realized that while many events offer good poker, they often lack the emotional connection and sense of community. I went completely alone to my first live event in Asch and felt quite lost at the beginning. However, during that trip, I unexpectedly met Quirin, aka Q_Poker. This was before he started streaming on Twitch and embarked on his journey as a poker pro. Since then, we’ve developed a great friendship. I believe it was right after that trip that a light bulb went off for me, and I thought: Why is there no format where you can be more than just a player who shows up, plays, and leaves – but actually becomes part of a community? It took several years, but that’s how Meetup Poker was originally born.Potti: Poker trips, community, shared experiences – it sounds more like a school trip for adults than a classic poker festival. Was that the vision from the beginning?Michel: Absolutely. That describes it perfectly. From the very start, we aimed to create an experience that makes everyone look forward to it months in advance and talk about it long after it’s over. Of course, poker is at the center, but the people, the atmosphere, and the shared memories make our events special.Potti: Did you ever think back then that it could evolve into a Europe-wide project with such a large community?Michel: Honestly? No. Of course, I had big goals and visions, but the speed and emotion with which the community has grown have surprised me as well. The best part is that many guests now come not just for the poker but for the people, the atmosphere, and the feeling of being part of this journey. We have several guests who have been back every year since our first event.Potti: What can visitors expect who have never attended a Meetup Poker Festival before? Why should one experience this event at least once?Michel: Because you quickly realize that Meetup Poker is different. From the very first moment, you become part of the community. Whether someone arrives alone or with friends, hardly anyone goes home without making new contacts or friendships. On top of that, there’s the overall package: strong tournaments, entertainment, shared activities, exclusive specials, and many surprises. Our goal is to host the best German-speaking poker community festival.Potti: You mention on your website that you have plans for September to do things with people that have never been done at any poker festival. That sounds mysterious. Can you reveal anything, or is it strictly under wraps until September?Michel: Some of it will definitely remain a secret— that’s what makes it exciting. But what I can say is this year, there are two opportunities to secure a bracelet pass worth $1,000 each. There are additional prizes worth over €20,000 to win. Essentially, we’re offering people exactly what I always wanted as a player.Potti: How will the bracelet passes be awarded? How can someone win one?Michel: We’ll award two bracelet passes ($1,000 each) during our festival. We refer to this as our “Vegas Package.” One pass will be played out on Sunday (06/09) at the casino in Asch. The spots for that will be given out in various ways before and during the festival. There are some Instagram giveaways, early bird specials, mystery envelopes at our kickoff event, and more. Ultimately, the nine lucky winners will compete for the $1,000 bracelet pass.The second pass will be awarded based on a ranking (Player of the Festival). Points can be won in every tournament. At the end, the person with the most points will win the second pass. We’ll announce the exact point allocation before the festival.Potti: What tournament highlights and special formats will there be this year? Are there intentionally also events where fun and entertainment are more important than just grinding?Michel: Definitely. Each of our VIPs has their own signature event. This year, you can look forward to six guests: Q_Poker, Jenzoou, Max Kruse, Os, SunrunningTV, and Fabiulous Poker will all be there. The Meetup Poker Festival kicks off with a big mystery bounty event on Wednesday. Alongside huge prize pools, there’s something for everyone. From PKO to freezeout to win the button, it’s all on the table. Last year, we hosted the largest Crazy Pineapple tournament ever and set a new world record. This year, we want to take it up a notch. I’m also particularly excited that ex-football pro Max Kruse will officially be joining us this year and is bringing his own PLO-5 Card event.Potti: If you look at Meetup Poker today: What are you most proud of personally – and where do you see the project in five years? Could you even imagine festivals outside of Europe?Michel: Honestly, I’m most proud of the community that has developed. The fact that people from different countries come together, friendships form, and many guests now come back every year means a lot to me. And yes – we definitely think big. Of course, we want to develop step by step, but I can absolutely imagine expanding Meetup Poker internationally in the long run. What’s important is always keeping the special atmosphere and community intact.

Potti: I’ve seen that the Mondeso Hotel is already fully booked. What’s the current hotel situation around Grand Casino Aš? Should one hurry, and is there actually a participant limit at which you might have to say: No more?Michel: You can definitely feel that interest is growing every year. Some hotels are already heavily booked, and we recommend everyone to arrange accommodation and packages early. The Mondeso was sold out within the first 24 hours.The casino accommodates about 500 people who can play at the poker tables simultaneously. Anything beyond that will start to get tight. Last year, we managed to push the casino to its capacity limits. It even got to the point where Sandro, the manager of the poker floor, had to work as a dealer for several hours. I spoke directly with the casino about how many guests we could bring this year. Sandro looked at me and simply said: “287.” Since then we’ve known: That’s the number to beat.Potti: And finally, to be honest: What would you say to someone who is still considering coming for the first time in September?Michel: If you’re looking for more than just a poker tournament, you should definitely experience it. It’s hard to put Meetup Poker into words because it lives especially from the people and the atmosphere. Many come once – and then they come back every year. That really says it all.All information about the festival, the individual tournaments, registration, and hotel packages can be found on the official Meetup Poker website. Current news, contests, and further updates can also be found on the official Instagram channel of Meetup Poker.