Watch: What does a poker run teach you about risk and strategy?
On the latest episode of the SiGMA Poker Face Podcast, SiGMA Poker Tour Operations Manager Ivonne Montealegre welcomed Luca Fagioli, Director of Technology & Business Operations at Panga Games, for a wide-ranging conversation that blended poker, technology and personal journey.
Although best known for his leadership roles in iGaming and fintech, Fagioli surprised many by finishing 23rd at the SiGMA Poker Tour Malta, marking his first major live poker tournament appearance.
A first live tournament
Fagioli described his Malta experience as both unexpected and unforgettable. Initially unsure whether to join the tournament or prioritise networking events, he decided at the last moment to sit at the table, a decision that kept him playing until 3 a.m.
“It was super fun,” he said, reflecting on advancing to Day Two despite limited live tournament experience. Acknowledging the technical gap between himself and seasoned professionals, Fagioli adopted a cautious strategy late in the event, satisfied to secure a strong finish and gain invaluable experience.
The reality of AI
Beyond poker, the discussion turned to Fagioli’s extensive iGaming career. Having spent nearly a decade in the industry, with a brief detour into banking, he returned full-time to gaming during the COVID era, citing its resilience and long-term potential.
On artificial intelligence, Fagioli offered a pragmatic perspective. While AI excels in creative applications such as graphics, music, and visual assets, he remains sceptical about its role in core gaming mathematics and player behaviour analysis.
“Gaming relies on data you can trust. Creativity is powerful, but when it comes to mathematics and predictability, AI isn’t quite there yet,” he explained.
Live poker in Italy
As an Italian native, Fagioli also shared insights into the challenges facing live poker in Italy. While poker remains culturally ingrained and widely understood, regulated live tournaments are scarce, pushing much of the activity underground.
Following his Malta experience, Fagioli explored options to play locally in Rome but found few legitimate opportunities, highlighting untapped potential for future development in the Italian market.
Asked what advice he would give to hesitant players considering the SiGMA Poker Tour, Fagioli was clear that you should go for it. He emphasised the atmosphere, the diversity of personalities at the table and the networking opportunities that come naturally through the game. “It’s intense and tiring, but it’s real fun,” he said, crediting the welcoming environment and supportive dealers for making the experience accessible to newcomers.
What’s next?
With upcoming SiGMA Poker Tour stops in Brazil, Manila and Mexico, Fagioli hinted that Brazil would be his next destination, aided by his fluency in Portuguese and previous time living there. He also weighed in on Brazil’s classification of poker as a mind sport, stressing the importance of regulatory stability for long-term industry growth. Fagioli plans to continue his poker journey while advancing several undisclosed iGaming projects that could disrupt parts of the industry. For now, he remains focused on quality partnerships, innovation and collecting more memories at the table.
Ready to take your seat at the table? Join the SiGMA Poker Tour and experience world-class poker, unforgettable networking and high-energy competition in iconic destinations. Register now and be part of the action.
