An Unprecedented Gathering of Talent and Innovation
On July 10, 2025, the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) proudly launched the opening press conference for the highly anticipated 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This monumental event signifies the commencement of the world's largest esports and gaming festival, which will run until August 24, 2025. With a remarkable lineup featuring over 2,000 elite players and 25 tournaments across 24 leading titles, the EWC has set a new benchmark in the esports arena. The staggering prize pool of over $70 million not only marks this event as the biggest esports competition to date but also solidifies its status as a pivotal moment in the history of competitive gaming.
At the heart of the EWC is the innovative Club Championship format, where the world's top 200 clubs will compete to accumulate points across multiple games. This first-of-its-kind competition highlights the evolving nature of esports, fostering collaboration and rivalry among teams in ways previously unseen. The grand prize of $7 million awaits the ultimate EWC Club Champion, alongside a plethora of rewards that include over $38 million designated for individual game championships, $5 million in global qualifier rewards, and $450,000 in MVP bonuses. Such a robust prize pool serves not only to attract elite talent but also to inspire the next generation of gamers.
Saudi Arabia: A New Epicenter for Esports
During the opening press conference, HRH Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, eloquently captured the essence of this event. "Guided by the ambitious vision and leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz AlSaud, the Kingdom is cementing its position as a global leader in gaming and esports," he stated. The EWC stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia's commitment to developing a sustainable esports ecosystem, which aligns with the broader goals of Vision 2030 and the National Gaming and Esports Strategy.
Furthermore, Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, emphasized the event's role in uniting the gaming community. "EWC 2025 is about bringing the gaming world together—iconic games, elite players, and millions of fans around a shared celebration," he noted. Through innovative global broadcasts and original storytelling, the EWC aims to create unparalleled opportunities for players and audiences alike. The event promises not only record-breaking competition but also a celebration of the cultural movement that esports has become.
The 2025 Esports World Cup in Riyadh represents a watershed moment for the gaming industry. It not only showcases the extraordinary talent of players and teams but also reflects the immense potential of esports as a unifying force in our increasingly interconnected world. As we look forward to the exciting days ahead, it is clear that the EWC will shape the future of competitive gaming for years to come.
