Saudi Arabia is set to take a monumental leap into the world of esports by hosting the inaugural Esports World Cup in the summer of 2024 which was announced in the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo with the games list yet to be revealed
This groundbreaking event is poised to be a game-changer, both for the esports industry and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With its ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, the Saudi government is committed to diversifying its economy, and esports plays a pivotal role in this transformation.
Esports World Cup Saudi Arabia 2024 schedule, date, venue, games list, prize money pool
The man behind this revolutionary move is none other than Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is known to be an avid gamer, particularly favoring titles like Call of Duty.ย
He envisions Saudi Arabia as the premier global hub for gaming and esports, and his passion for gaming has driven substantial investments in the sector over the past six years.
Youโve been waiting for itโฆ the tournament that will change your life ๐
Premiering in Summer 2024, the Esports World Cup will crown the best club on earth.
#esportsworldcup pic.twitter.com/3qxqGjqAxS— Gamers8 Esports (@Gamers8GG) October 23, 2023
In 2022, Prince Mohammed unveiled a massive $38 billion investment strategy for the Savvy Games Group, a subsidiary of the Saudi sovereign wealth fund, Public Investment Fund (PIF).ย
This investment plan is designed to establish 250 gaming companies within the country, ultimately creating a staggering 39,000 jobs in the esports industry by 2030.
The official statement indicates that the event will encompass the most popular games across all genres, and it will boast the largest prize pool in esports history. The competition will be held annually in Riyadh starting summer 2024, a statement from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said but the official schedule isn’t out yet.
This tournament will set a new standard for esports prize pools. The official statement boldly declares that the event will not just feature the most popular games across all genres but will also boast the largest prize pool in esports history estimated to be around $45 million.
The titles to be included have not been announced but were described as including the most popular games in the world across all key genres at the world cup.
What sets the Esports World Cup apart is not just the extraordinary prize pool but also the involvement of global sporting icon Cristiano Ronaldo.ย
The football legend was on hand to announce the event and discuss the future of esports with Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Ronaldo’s participation adds a unique dimension to the tournament and could certainly attract audiences from around the globe.
An honour to meet again with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman and great to be part of this panel today discussing the future of esports and the launch of the first ever #esportsworldcup that will be held in Saudi Arabia next year! pic.twitter.com/1N4AVYn9Pv
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) October 23, 2023
The ambitious goals of Vision 2030 extend beyond mere job creation. Saudi Arabia aspires to become an “Eden for game developers” with the ability to produce new titles that promote Saudi and Arabic culture. The national esports strategy aims to have 30 globally competitive games developed within domestic studios by 2030.
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