At a high-profile press conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia officially launched the Esports World Cup 2025, outlining an ambitious vision to establish the Kingdom as the world’s premier hub for competitive gaming. The event brought together global media, game publishers, club owners, and professional players.
A Personal Tribute and a Call for Legacy
Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, President of the Saudi Esports Federation, opened the event with an emotional reflection, deviating from his prepared remarks to speak about the personal meaning of gaming. He recalled a lifelong friendship shaped by gaming, adding that it made him reflect on the idea of lasting legacy.
“This is more than numbers,” he said. “It’s about joy, connection, and building something that will endure for generations.”
Looking back on the 2024 World Cup, which hosted 1,500 athletes, 2.6 million visitors, and 24 games, Prince Faisal emphasized that the 2025 edition would build on that momentum. He also expressed heartfelt appreciation to everyone involved — from production crews to players — calling them “the real engine” behind the movement. He credited Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for making this vision possible.
Scaling Up the Global Stage
Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, highlighted the rapid growth of the tournament. The 2025 edition will feature:
2,000 athletes
25 tournaments
Over 200 clubs from 100+ countries
$70+ million in prize money
The roster will include titles such as Fatal Fury, Crossfire, and Chess, with chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen serving as a brand ambassador.
Broadcast reach will expand significantly, with coverage in over 100 countries, 30+ languages, and 7,000 hours of live tournament content. A new documentary series, EWC Spotlight, will provide behind-the-scenes stories of clubs and players.
Building a Full Ecosystem
Faisal bin Homran, Chief Product Officer at the Foundation, described the World Cup as the core of a broader strategy to develop a sustainable global esports ecosystem. He outlined four key pillars: games, clubs, players, and fans.
The Road to EWC qualifier series, with over 200 global stops, ensures that only the world’s best talents reach Riyadh. Last year’s underdog champion inspired the launch of the Heroes Club, which celebrates breakout stars and their journeys.
A Catalyst for Vision 2030
The Esports World Cup also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, contributing to national goals in economic diversification, job creation, and cultural development. Through esports, the Kingdom is investing in infrastructure, tourism, innovation, and the creative economy.
“What excites me most is how this is being built — collaboratively and with long-term purpose,” said Reichert. “This is about building a legacy that outlives the tournament itself.”
Source: arabianbusiness.com
