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Arab News
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Arab News
ESL Saudi Challenge 2025 offers Saudi teams shot at Esports World Cup glory
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia's burgeoning esports scene takes another significant step forward as the ESL Saudi Challenge 2025 kicks off, spotlighting the Kingdom's top Overwatch 2 talent and offering a direct path to the Esports World Cup. Organized by ESL FACEIT Group, a Savvy Games Group company, the tournament features eight elite Saudi teams battling for a share of the $20,000 prize pool. But more than just the money is on the line — the winning team will earn a coveted spot in the Overwatch Champions Series, a premier international circuit that feeds into the EWC. 'The ESL Saudi Challenge is more than just a local tournament; it's a strategic platform that offers players a genuine opportunity to reach the global stage,' said Franck Guignery, senior vice president of Middle East and North Africa at ESL FACEIT Group. 'As an official operating partner of the EWC, ESL FACEIT Group is committed to building professional pathways and empowering local talent to represent Saudi Arabia in the international esports scene.' The initiative is closely aligned with Saudi Arabia's national strategy to develop a sustainable esports ecosystem and position the Kingdom as a global hub for competitive gaming. This year's tournament will culminate with the grand final on May 30 at VOV Gaming in Riyadh, where the top three teams from the May 13–16 playoffs will compete live in front of a home crowd. With high stakes and international exposure on offer, the ESL Saudi Challenge has become a proving ground for players looking to make the leap from national heroes to global contenders.
Arab News
21-04-2025
- Sport
- Arab News
The ESL Saudi Challenge returns in 2025 with two editions
RIYADH: ESL FACEIT Group, the world's leading e-sports company, has announced the return of the ESL Saudi Challenge for 2025, with two editions confirmed for May and December. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport The expansion is part of EFG's long-term commitment to Saudi Arabia's gaming ecosystem and supports the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and its National Gaming and Esports Strategy. Kicking off the 2025 season, the first round of open qualifiers will take place on April 24-26, followed by a second round scheduled for May 1-3. The competition will then advance to the playoffs on May 7-8 and 14-15, culminating in a live grand final at VOV Gaming on May 30. The ESL Saudi Challenge is a platform for emerging local talent to shine on the world stage, linking Saudi players with international opportunities and audiences. 'What's happening in the Kingdom today sets the tone for the future of global e-sports.' said Franck Guignery, senior vice president for the MENA region at EFG. 'We're witnessing a generation of players with world-class potential. The ESL Saudi Challenge is more than a tournament, it's a launchpad — a gateway that connects Saudi talent to the global esports arena. For the industry, this isn't just an opportunity — it's a turning point.' Each 2025 edition of the tournament will spotlight Overwatch 2 as its flagship title, with a $20,000 prize pool and offering winners a direct path to global competitions. This year's grand finals will culminate in a live showdown, bringing the region's top talent to the big stage.
