During the SiGMA Poker Tour in Brazil, Professional Poker Player Bianca Lira made her mark, discussing strategy, the importance of mentorship and advocating for more female representation in poker. Bianca Lira’s poker journey began in 2013 while she was still in college studying radio and television in São Paulo. Though her academic focus was on media, she was drawn into the poker world when she joined Brazil’s largest online team at the time, Steel Team. Under the mentorship of top player Johnny Bower, Lira quickly picked up sit and go strategy and found herself hooked. While learning poker, she also interned as a video editor at a local TV station. “I like film and cinema a lot.” she said, but ultimately, poker took centre stage.
Lira is candid about the challenges women face in professional poker. “I’ve heard many stories of girls feeling harassed at the tables, guys making them uncomfortable.” she said. This often discourages women from returning to the game, something Lira hopes will change. “Let’s hope it stops and more women come and play with us.”
For aspiring professionals, Lira strongly recommends financial preparation. “Have your expenses covered for at least a year.” she advised. “So you don’t feel pressured by the money.” She emphasised the value of having a mentor, especially early on. “When you’re just starting, it’s important to have someone guiding you. Later, it’s more about building a network and exchanging ideas.” Lira herself continues to study, run simulations and review hands with more experienced players. “You have to stay humble. We make mistakes all the time.”
According to Lira, Brazil is rapidly becoming a global poker powerhouse. “Outside Vegas, I think we have the second biggest circuit. It’s booming, it’s like soccer here.” she said. Regulation is also advancing, while traditional casinos are not yet legal, online gambling has recently been regulated. “It’s going to create jobs, bring in tax revenue, it’s very good for the country.” she added.
Lira’s participation in the SiGMA Poker Tour was made possible through a new sponsorship she’s enthusiastic about. “It all happened very smoothly.” she said. “They’ve given me a lot of support, Katarina and the whole team have been amazing.” She praised the event’s scale and organisation. “I was surprised at how big it was and almost in secret! I hadn’t heard about it, and then I saw this amazing setup.” As the Brazilian poker scene grows, Bianca Lira continues to push boundaries at the table, in the community and as a role model for the next generation of players.
Don’t miss out on our next stop of the SiGMA Poker Tour, taking place in Malta from the 3rd to the 7th of September 2025, for exciting poker action and networking opportunities.
