Latest news with #FranckGuignery
Arab News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Twisted Minds defend Overwatch 2 crown at ESL Saudi Challenge 2025
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia's top Overwatch 2 team, Twisted Minds, have once again stamped their authority on the national stage, successfully defending their title at the ESL Saudi Challenge 2025, held at Riyadh's VOV Gaming Arena. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport The high-octane finale saw Twisted Minds overcome a fierce challenge from Al-Qadsiah, who went into the match with a lot of momentum after a decisive win against Team Vision in the semifinals. The final matchup was a showcase of strategy and execution, with Twisted Minds ultimately pulling ahead through superior coordination and championship composure. With the win, they not only retained the title but also secured a berth in the Overwatch Champions Series, the official qualifier for the Esports World Cup. They also claimed the top prize from a $20,000 pool. The ESL Saudi Challenge, launched by ESL FACEIT Group, is part of a broader push to elevate the competitive gaming scene in Saudi Arabia and the wider region. Designed as both a platform for talent and a pipeline to international competitions, the tournament reflects the Kingdom's growing role in the global esports ecosystem. 'The ESL Saudi Challenge is a cornerstone in our long-term commitment to building a thriving and sustainable esports ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and the wider MENA region,' said Franck Guignery, the group's senior vice president for MENA. 'Through this tournament, we're not only creating high-level competitive opportunities for local talent but also reinforcing the Kingdom's role as a key player on the global esports map. 'This is just the beginning, we see Saudi and MENA as essential to the future of competitive gaming and we're here to help shape that future.' As Twisted Minds prepare to represent Saudi Arabia in the OWCS, the Kingdom's position as a force in international esports continues to grow. With strategic investments, a strong talent pool and quality infrastructure, the country is no longer just part of the global esports movement it is helping to lead it.
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.
