Phil Ivey's infamous edge sorting scandal involved Baccarat, specifically Punto Banco, at Crockfords and Borgata. This guide recounts the 2012 events, technique breakdown, legal fallout, and modern implications for 2026 players.
Step 1: The Game - Punto Banco Baccarat
- House edge 1.06% Banker
- Card factory defects exploited
- Requested Gemaco cards
High-stakes tables ($100K/hand). Ivey won $9.6M at Crockfords, $10M at Borgata using sorting.
Step 2: Edge Sorting Technique
Spotting asymmetric patterns on backs during deal.
- Request single-deck, specific orientation
- Dealer announces 'higher' for 6-9
- Ivey/partner signal turns
Step 3: Execution at Casinos
"casino game where phil ivey used edge sorting is most useful when readers can compare options quickly."
2012 London/Miami trips. Won 90% hands post-sort.
- VIP private rooms
- Sun glasses for focus
- Immediate $20M total
Step 4: Legal Battles & Rulings
- UK: Ivey lost appeal 2017
- US: Ordered repay $10M
- Precedent: advantage play vs fraud
Casinos sued; courts ruled cheating, not skill.
Step 5: 2026 Casino Countermeasures
- ✓Symmetric card backs mandatory
- ✓Auto-shufflers
- ✓AI pattern detection
- ✓Edge sorting now banned AP
Post-Ivey, industry upgraded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What casino game did Phil Ivey edge sort?
Baccarat Punto Banco at Crockfords and Borgata.
Did Phil Ivey get his winnings?
No, courts ordered repayment; he fought but lost on technicalities.
Is edge sorting legal in 2026?
No, considered cheating; casinos void wins and ban players.