This summer, Saudi Arabia is set to host the largest esports tournament to date, marking a monumental step in its journey to become a global gaming hub. The Esports World Cup, scheduled to take place in Riyadh, is more than a competition; it symbolizes the kingdom’s commitment to establishing itself as a powerhouse in both gaming and sports under the Vision 2030 initiative.

With an impressive prize pool of $60 million, the tournament promises to attract top-tier talent from around the globe. Competitors will face off in a diverse array of titles, including Street Fighter, Overwatch, and League of Legends, creating a comprehensive celebration of the esports spectrum. Beyond the main events, the tournament will feature a festival of gaming activities, side tournaments, and conferences, offering a vibrant and immersive experience for all attendees.

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, shared his insights with The National, highlighting the significance of this event for both Saudi Arabia and the global gaming community. He explained that the goal is to create the ultimate competition across various games, bringing them together on a scale unprecedented in the industry.

Reichert, a veteran in the esports world, co-founded the Electronic Sports League (ESL) in 2000, which quickly became a leader in organizing and broadcasting major tournaments for games like Counter-Strike, Dota 2, and League of Legends. Now, leading the Esports World Cup Foundation, he aims to elevate this event to premier status on the global gaming calendar.

The Esports World Cup represents a strategic move to unify and propel the gaming community forward. Reichert envisions a future where gaming is universally embraced and sees Saudi Arabia’s national strategy on esports as pioneering. He noted that making esports and gaming a national strategy places Saudi Arabia far ahead of other countries.

Saudi Arabia’s unique geographical and political positioning also plays a crucial role. Reichert emphasized that the kingdom’s location allows it to connect the two most important markets, the US and China. He pointed out that Saudi Arabia’s ability to maintain good relations with both countries enables effective representation from both regions.

The tournament will feature marquee games such as Counter-Strike and the popular football game EAFC, promising a spectacle that appeals to both hardcore gamers and casual viewers. Reichert highlighted Counter-Strike’s universal appeal, noting its simplicity and intensity make it an ideal sport for spectators.

Set to kick off on July 3 and run for eight weeks until August 25, the tournament will culminate with significant prize pools, including a $5 million top prize for Dota 2. Reichert’s vision for the Esports World Cup is clear: to accelerate the growth of the esports industry and position it as one of the world’s largest sporting events.

Looking ahead, Reichert sees potential for the Esports World Cup to evolve. While it is currently club-based, he acknowledges the possibility of a nation-based format in the future, akin to the Olympics. He suggested that although the club approach is more traditional, a nation-based format could still be developed and positioned effectively.

As the countdown to the Esports World Cup begins, excitement is building. Reichert is particularly enthusiastic about the array of tournaments, including the debut of Honour of Kings outside of China and the regionally and globally popular Overwatch. He expressed equal enthusiasm for all the games featured in the event, highlighting the monumental occasion it represents.

With Saudi Arabia at the forefront, the Esports World Cup is poised to make history, showcasing the kingdom’s vision and dedication to the future of gaming.