After months of planning, logistics, and interest from around the world the waiting is finally over. For the next four days two unique events will be the focus of the poker world. It starts today with the inaugural running of the Nations Cup, and finishes on Sunday at The Table, where a first official IFP world champion of poker will be crowned.

Today, it’s all about the EDF Energy London Eye where in a few hours’ time 12 teams, made up of member federations, (actual and digital) take to the skies in the Eye’s capsules to play duplicate poker while steadily circling, with the stunning backdrop of London by night to distract them.Already the players are milling around the South Bank in London, opposite the House of Parliament, and a few feet away from County Hall, the former home to the Greater London Council and now the perfect venue for an event of equal stature. Or something like that.That all starts tonight, with lift-off scheduled for 8pm. That’s when the first of the 12 tables will be filled for a night of duplicate poker, perhaps the most unique variation of the Mind Sport. What’s duplicate poker you ask? Watch the video introduction to get up to speed.

Right now though the IFP Congress is taking place in the former Debating Chamber of the GLC (details to follow later today), before a reception begins for players, dignitaries and celebrities, here to witness what will be an historic day.

When play finally starts you’ll find live coverage of the event right here on the IFP Blog, along with pictures, videos and everything else you might think of. You can also follow us on Twitter and on Facebook, where you can also send us your comments.