Daniel Negreanu Tops GPI Popularity Rankings in February Update

25 Feb 2026

Samantha Doyle 25 Feb 2026

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Daniel Negreanu leads global poker interest with a busy 2026 WSOP schedule.
Canadian players maintain strong GPI rankings with consistent performances.
High visibility and engagement drive Canadian poker influence globally.

WSOP Paradise Super Main Event Daniel Negreanu

The Global Poker Index (GPI) update for February 18, 2026, highlights a powerful trend for the Canadian poker scene: the national talent is currently at the center of the global poker dialogue.

While tournament cashes typically drive the headlines, the GPI’s Popularity Metric provides a distinct look at which players are generating the most community buzz. This week, Toronto's Daniel Negreanu has reclaimed the top spot in global interest rankings, solidifying his position as the game's most followed figure.

The "Kid Poker" Influence

Negreanu’s ascent to the peak of the popularity charts follows several high-profile developments. Most significantly, the seven-time WSOP bracelet winner recently went public with his 2026 World Series of Poker (WSOP) schedule, committing to a massive 40-event grind this summer in Las Vegas.

His commitment to transparency, ranging from public staking opportunities on PokerStake to his daily Vlogs, keeps him firmly in the spotlight for fans and industry media. This surge in popularity is more than just a metric of fame; in today's poker market, high visibility often drives brand partnerships and increases participation in the specific tournaments he chooses to play.

Canada’s Standing on the Global Stage

While Negreanu dominates the "interest" charts, other Canadian pros are maintaining strong positions in the performance-based rankings. As of mid-February, these are the top-ranked Canadians competing globally:

GPI Rank	Canadian Rank	Player	Recent Form Highlight
23	1	Mike Watson	Consistent deep runs in early 2026 high-roller events.
32	2	Kristen Foxen	Maintaining her status as a top-tier global contender.
59	3	Daniel Dvoress	A steady, high-performing presence in PGT events.
100	4	Jamil Wakil	Surging into the Global Top 100 after a strong start to the year.

The Importance of the Popularity Metric

For the Canadian poker community, having an icon like Negreanu lead the interest charts provides significant momentum. The GPI is the industry standard for measuring both performance and attention, and this current trend suggests that Canadian players are exceptionally well-positioned for the upcoming spring circuit.

As one industry analyst observed:

Canadian players are capturing the spotlight through a combination of results and consistent community engagement. This level of visibility shapes the broader poker conversation and directly impacts player turnouts at both local and international stops.

Looking Forward

As the 2026 WSOP draws closer and EPT Paris remains in the spotlight, these rankings are expected to see continued movement. However, if the current trajectory is any indication, 2026 is becoming a standout year for Canadian poker stars, both in terms of tournament results and global influence.

Check back with OntarioPoker.com regularly as we follow our local pros through a busy spring tournament schedule.