Inbizzy – The Esports World Cup 2025 (EWC 2025) officially kicked off this week in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) launched its opening press conference, setting the stage for what is now the largest esports and gaming festival in the world.
Running through August 24, the event unites over 2,000 elite players, 200 of the world’s top esports clubs, and 25 global tournaments across 24 titles-with a record-breaking prize pool exceeding $70 million.
First-of-Its-Kind Format: The EWC Club Championship
At the heart of this year’s competition is the EWC Club Championship, a cross-title contest where teams earn points across multiple games to vie for the $7 million grand prize and the prestigious EWC Club Championship trophy.
The $70+ million prize fund includes:
- $38 million for individual game championships
- $5 million in global qualifier rewards
- $450,000 in MVP bonuses
This monumental figure not only makes EWC 2025 the biggest in history but also positions the event as a turning point for professional esports worldwide.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision: Gaming as a Global Movement
Speaking at the press conference, HRH Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, highlighted the Kingdom’s growing influence in the global gaming ecosystem:
“Guided by the vision of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Kingdom is cementing its position as a global leader in esports and gaming. The Esports World Cup is a reflection of our ambition and dedication. It’s a global milestone showcasing the scale and future of competitive gaming.”
He added that hosting the event aligns with Vision 2030 and the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, which aim to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy while establishing it as a leading hub for sports, gaming, and entertainment.
“Esports is no longer niche-it is a global sport and cultural force. EWC is the ultimate platform to showcase this transformation.”
Redefining the Esports Experience
Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, emphasized that EWC 2025 is more than just competition-it’s a celebration of the global gaming community:
“Through global broadcasts, original content, and immersive storytelling, we’re not only connecting fans but reshaping how esports is experienced. This summer will be remembered as a landmark moment for the industry.”
Faisal bin Homran, Chief Product Officer at EWCF, added:
“The Esports World Cup is redefining what’s possible in esports-from high-stakes competition to world-class production. We’re delivering excitement on a scale unmatched in the industry.”
He noted that EWC serves as a platform for leading publishers, brands, and creators to engage with fans worldwide and contribute to the future of esports.
A Star-Powered Opening Ceremony
Kicking off the festival in style, the EWC Opening Ceremony will feature global stars Post Malone, DINO of SEVENTEEN, and Alesso, setting the tone for a summer packed with high-octane matches and global entertainment in Riyadh.
