The Esports World Cup (EWC) continues to expand its lineup for the 2025 edition, with the announcement that Free Fire will return as one of the featured games. This marks another milestone for the mobile battle royale, which made its impactful debut at the inaugural EWC event in 2024.
Free Fire’s History in the Esports World Cup
Free Fire was the centerpiece of EWC’s first-ever tournament, concluding on July 14, 2024, with Team Falcons, an Arab organization, claiming the championship title. The event also crowned Ratchanon “Moshi” Kunrayason of Buriram United Esports as the MVP for his exceptional gameplay.
The 2024 Free Fire tournament boasted a prize pool of $1 million, drawing significant attention from the global esports community. Its champions also earned a spot in the prestigious World Series – Global Finals 2024, held in Brazil on November 24, 2024.
Viewership Records and Legacy
The Free Fire tournament during the 2024 EWC was a monumental success, achieving a peak viewership of 471,483, according to Esports Charts. However, this record was soon eclipsed by the Free Fire World Series 2024 Finals, which amassed a staggering 731,970 peak viewers, solidifying the game’s immense popularity.
What to Expect for EWC 2025
While specific details about the 2025 Free Fire tournament—such as the prize pool and potential pathways to global events—are yet to be announced, its inclusion has already generated excitement. The event will take place once again in Riyadh, further emphasizing Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the esports industry.
The EWC 2025 lineup also includes other confirmed titles:
- Call of Duty: Black Ops 6: Replacing Modern Warfare from the 2024 edition.
- Call of Duty: Warzone: Retaining its spot for the upcoming tournament.
- Honor of Kings: A staple in competitive esports.
EWC and Saudi Arabia’s Role in Esports Growth
Organized by the Esports World Cup Foundation, the event benefits from the support of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, reflecting the nation’s ambition to become a global esports hub.
Conclusion
Free Fire’s return to the EWC marks another opportunity to celebrate the talent and competitive spirit of its players. With Riyadh set to host the action, anticipation for record-breaking viewership and intense competition continues to build.