This summer, Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, will host one of the largest eSports events to date. The Esports World Cup has announced its intention to distribute the largest prize pool in the history of esports events, exceeding 60 million euros, a substantial prize purse comparable to major tournaments in traditional sports.
Breaking Records
This staggering amount surpasses the previous record of $45 million set by ‘Gamers8: The Land of Heroes’ in 2023, establishing a new benchmark in esports prize pools.
For context, the prize pool for the League of Legends World Championship, the “eSport King,” is less than €500,000, while the largest prizes are typically found in CS:GO majors, with winnings slightly exceeding €1 million.
Community Impact
The Esports World Cup will feature over 20 video games, showcasing the world’s best clubs and eSports athletes across various competitions. With an anticipated duration of approximately eight weeks, the tournament aims to propel the esports industry forward and provide sustainable professional options for athletes and multidisciplinary esports clubs.
Prize Distribution Model
The $60 million prize pool will be distributed across multiple categories, with a focus on rewarding both individual and team achievements. Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, emphasized the significance of this milestone and its positive message to the esports community.
Club Championship
The innovative Club Championship format will allocate a total of $20 million to the top 16 clubs based on their overall performance. This multigame competition allows clubs to select their preferred games, culminating in the crowning of the inaugural Club Champion.
Game Championships
Each of the 20 Game Championships will have its prize pool, totaling over $33 million. Additionally, an MVP award of $50,000 will be granted to standout participants in each competition.
Qualifiers
Over $7 million will be awarded before the start of the Game Championships, as teams and athletes compete to secure slots through qualifying events organized by publishers and associated event organizers.
Beyond Competition
In addition to the competitive aspect, the Esports World Cup aims to transform Riyadh into a hub for esports enthusiasts and gaming culture. An immersive Festival will feature game activations, community tournaments, international experiences, and more.
Game Lineup
The Esports World Cup will feature a diverse lineup of esports titles, including:
- Apex Legends
- Counter-Strike 2
- Dota 2
- EA Sports FC 24
- Fortnite
- Free Fire
- Honor of Kings
- League of Legends
- Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
- Overwatch 2
- PUBG Battleground
- PUBG MOBILE
- Tom Clancy’s Rainbow 6 Siege
- ESL R1
- Rocket League
- StarCraft II
- Street Fighter 6
- Teamfight Tactics
- TEKKEN 8
Final Toughts
The Esports World Cup’s groundbreaking prize pool distribution marks a significant milestone in the esports industry, highlighting its rapid growth and global impact. As Riyadh prepares to host this monumental event, the stage is set for an unforgettable celebration of esports excellence and innovation.
With a diverse lineup of games and an innovative approach to competition, the Esports World Cup promises to captivate audiences worldwide and elevate the esports experience to new heights. Get ready to witness history in the making as the world’s top athletes and clubs converge for the ultimate showdown in Riyadh.
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