Saudi Arabia has announced the launch of an annual Esports World Cup with the largest prize pool in esports history. The event will be managed by the Esports World Cup Foundation, aiming to collaborate among esports stakeholders and ensure the industry’s sustainability.
Set to begin in the summer of 2024, the Esports World Cup will replace Gamers8, a $45 million esports festival organised by the Saudi Esports Federation. The specific titles to be featured have not been disclosed, they are expected to enclose a wide array of the most popular games across various genres.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who introduced the National Gaming and Esports Strategy in September 2022, said that this competition aligns with the country’s Vision 2030 goals. The event is organised to contribute to expanding the Saudi economy, boosting the tourism sector, and generating employment opportunities.
A diverse range of activities and events will be organised to attract visitors and tourists to Riyadh.
The announcement of the Esports World Cup took place during the New Global Sport Conference, a business esports networking event hosted by the Saudi Esports Federation and the Saudi Arabian government’s Ministry of Sport in Riyadh.
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Crown Prince HRH Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia stated, “The Esports World Cup is the next step in Saudi Arabia’s journey to become the premier global hub for gaming and esports, offering an unmatched esports experience that pushes the boundaries of the industry. The competition will enhance our progress towards the Vision 2030 objectives of diversifying the economy, growing the tourism sector, creating new jobs in various industries, and providing world-class entertainment for citizens, residents, and visitors alike.’
Visit the Saudi Esports website for more information
