Saudi Arabia is gearing up to make the Esports World Cup (EWC) a staple event in the global esports calendar, with plans to bring it back in 2025. Although the specific location for the 2025 event has yet to be confirmed, it is widely anticipated that the EWC will continue to be hosted in the region.
This follows the successful completion of this year’s inaugural event in Riyadh, which showcased games like PUBG, Rocket League, and featured the prestigious Esports Awards.
EWC 2024 Highlights: A Grand Success
The Esports World Cup 2024 concluded with a spectacular display of competitive gaming. Saudi-backed organization Team Falcons emerged as the champions of the 2024 season, clinching a staggering $7 million prize through their impressive performance across various esports.
The event’s closing ceremony marked the end of nearly two months of high-octane action, cementing the EWC’s status as a major player in the esports world.
Key Takeaways from EWC 2024
- Champion: Team Falcons
- Prize Pool: $7 million
- Games Featured: PUBG, Rocket League, and more
- Duration: Nearly two months of action
Future of the Esports World Cup
The establishment of the Esports World Cup Foundation last year signaled the intent to create a lasting impact on the gaming and esports landscape. According to Michael Ashford, chief executive of the Esports Awards, the Awards will remain linked with the EWC for the next three years, highlighting the event’s ongoing significance.
EWC Foundation’s Goals
- Long-Term Impact: Enhance the global esports ecosystem.
- Support Program: Provide funding and support to esports organizations.
- Membership Growth: The foundation now includes 30 organizations aiming to diversify competitive opportunities.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the grand spectacle, the EWC faced some hurdles in its inaugural year. Viewership numbers for major esports titles like League of Legends, Call of Duty, Counter-Strike 2, and Dota 2 were notably lower compared to other LAN events. Factors such as timezone differences, event dissatisfaction, and perceptions of sportswashing contributed to these challenges.
Factors Affecting Viewership
- Timezones: Complicated viewing schedules for global audiences.
- Event Satisfaction: Mixed reviews from attendees.
- Perceptions of Sportswashing: Concerns about Saudi Arabia’s investment motives in esports.
Looking Ahead
As the Esports World Cup Foundation continues to grow and refine its approach, there is optimism that the event will solidify its place in the esports calendar. With Saudi Arabia’s increasing investments in esports, including hosting the first Esports Olympic Games, the future of the EWC looks promising.
Esports World Cup Club Championship: Team Falcons Crowned Champions with $7 Million Prize