Last Sunday, rumors that John Duthie, the man who created European Poker Tour and has $2,7 million in career tournament winnings, was no longer part of Team PokerStars Pro started circulating in different poker forums. It didn't take long before Duthie confirmed that he didn't sign a new contract after the last one expired in December 31, 2011. Duthie's departure comes just a few months after that JP Kelly left Team PokerStars Pro. This leaves only Liv Boeree, Victoria Coren and Jude Ainsworth representing Team UK and Ireland.
Rumors that Duthie's exit was some kind of protest against PokerStars' new VIP program was quickly denied by Duthie himself.
"Hey guys....I'm afraid this decision had nothing to do with the VPP situation or the 'Sit-Out'; it was quite simply that I didn't want to renew my contract which expired 31st December. There was also no Tweet to this effect. All very self-centered to be honest. Love the idea of being 'Tribune of the people' but sadly this is not the case."
