eSports – WireUp

Esports Championships Amplifies the Excitement of Highly Anticipated European Games in Poland

May 28, 2023 Published by EuropeanGaming.eu

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The inaugural European Games Esports Championships (#EGE23) will welcome esports athletes and teams from across Europe to compete in two top esports titles – eFootball 2023 and Rocket League, this June.

The esports athletes will compete in parallel with the 7000 athletes representing 48 countries at the third edition of the European Games in Kraków and the Małopolska region of Poland. #EGE23 will add a whole new dimension of competition and entertainment to this grand sporting fiesta.

The Global Esports Federation and the European Olympic Committees confirmed that #EGE23 will run from June 30 to July 2. The International Congress Centre (MCK) in Katowice will become the epicentre of digital competition and is set to be a landmark event in the region’s sporting calendar.

The Open and Women Categories for eFootball 2023 and Open Category for Rocket League at #EGE23 will allow esports athletes from across the continent to compete for national glory.

Commenting on the groundbreaking nature of #EGE23, Aurelia Ruetsch, GEF Board Member and Chair of the EGE23 Coordination Commission, said: “The European Games Esports Championships represents a pioneering moment for esports in Europe. Having been part of the team at the inaugural European Games Baku 2015, I am thrilled to see another first with the EOC as we convene top-level esports competitions alongside traditional sports, celebrating youth culture in the heart of Europe.”

“We are delighted to see esports in this prestigious event – the European Games. The #EGE23 is a significant milestone in the development of esports in Europe. It’s a joyful celebration of youth, esports, and sport all together,” Chris Chan, President of the GEF, said.

In addition to the esports competitions, the #EGE23 will feature the GEFestival – a celebration of esports’ inclusive culture, games, music and entertainment – and GEFcon, a global convention of thought leaders and idea creators in business, esports, sport and technology on an international stage for sharing and learning.

“The Esports Championships is an extraordinary addition to the European Games lineup and underscores the progressive vision of the diversity and inclusivity of the sports world, highlighting the common ground they share in terms of dedication, strategy, and the pursuit of excellence. We are delighted to collaborate with the Global Esports Federation on the first of many planned initiatives,” Spyros Capralos, President of EOC, said.

Hasan Arat, Chair of the EOC Coordination Commission for the European Games 2023, said: “The EOC is delighted to have partnered with the Global Esports Federation to host the Esports Championships in Katowice this summer.

“Esports is hugely popular worldwide, especially among the younger generation, and as the European Games continues to look for ways to innovate and attract a younger audience, this is a significant step.

“The International Congress Center in Katowice will be the perfect venue for the competition, and I know that it will be a memorable occasion for all the esports athletes taking part.”

Lion Gaming Partners with Oddin.gg to Supercharge Esports Offering

May 24, 2023 Published by EuropeanGaming.eu

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Lion Gaming, a leading online casino platform provider, is thrilled to announce its latest partnership with Oddin.gg, the leading B2B provider of esports betting solutions. This strategic integration will supercharge Lion Gaming’s sportsbook platform by incorporating Oddin.gg’s industry leading esports offering.

Recognized for its industry-leading capabilities, Oddin.gg boasts the highest number of live esports markets available in the market today. This integration will enable Lion Gaming to provide operators with an extensive range of live esports events and betting options, ensuring that players have access to the most comprehensive selection of esports markets available anywhere.

“Our partnership with Oddin.gg marks an important milestone for Lion Gaming as we continue to elevate our sportsbook platform and enhance our offerings,” said Jason Poprawa, Head of Sportsbook at Lion Gaming. “By integrating Oddin.gg’s impressive esports solutions, we are providing our partner operators and their players with an unrivaled gaming experience that combines seamless performance, a vast array of live esports markets, and the thrill of competitive esports. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation in the industry.”

Marek Suchar, Managing Director and Co-Founder at Oddin.gg, added: “We are very excited about our partnership with Lion Gaming by providing them our esports odds feed, risk management and widgets to support reaching their future goals: enabling the platform to cater to the growing demand for esports betting, offering an unmatched level of excitement and engagement for esports enthusiast worldwide. “

Lion Gaming’s collaboration with Oddin.gg will enable the platform to cater to the growing demand for Esports betting, offering an unmatched level of excitement and engagement for esports enthusiasts worldwide.

ESFI Conducts Special Meet with IOA

May 20, 2023 Published by EuropeanGaming.eu

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In a bid to discuss the growth of Esports in the country and hand over exclusive training kits produced by Hama to the Indian Esports contingent that will be participating at the Hangzhou Asian Games, the Esports Federation of India (ESFI) organised a special meet with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) at the IOA Office in Delhi on Wednesday.

The event was graced by Mr. Kalyan Chaubey, Joint secretary & acting CEO of the IOA who presented the training kits to Street Fighter V athlete Mayank Prajapati, League of Legends player Mihir Ranjan and FIFA ace Harman Tikka in the presence of Mr. Lokesh Suji, Director of ESFI & Vice President of the Asian Esports Federation (AESF), Mr. Yugal Sharma, Vice President of ESFI and Mr. Prabhat Kumar, Vice-President of ESFI.

Mr. Chaubey also engaged in a discussion with the ESFI representatives and Indian athletes to motivate them for the Asian Games and talk about fostering an ecosystem that enables Esports to thrive in the country.

Addressing the queries of the Esports athletes present, Kalyan Chaubey, the Joint secretary & acting CEO of the IOA said, “We are confident about Esports having a strong future in India where it will generate a significant amount of interest driven by the young demographic of players in the country. Esports is a new-age sport that every country is playing and the upcoming Asian Games will mark the beginning of a marathon where we hope that our talented athletes help India take a giant lead against the other competitors. Just like the USA is synonymous with baseball, Finland is with ice hockey, and Brazil, Spain, and Germany are with football today, the world should be talking about India whenever we talk about Esports. The IOA remains fully committed to supporting our athletes & ESFI in every possible way, standing by them as they strive to achieve remarkable success and bring home medals.”

Esports recently gained official recognition as a multi-sport event by the government of India and is set to make its debut as a full-fledged medal sport at the upcoming Hangzhou Asian Games. The country will be sending a proficient 15-member contingent to compete in four different titles including DOTA 2, FIFA 22, Street Fighter V and League of Legends at the prestigious tournament set to take place from September 23 to October 8.

Speaking on the occasion, Street Fighter athlete Mayank Prajapati commented, “We felt really good after meeting with Kalyan sir and having a positive discussion about Esports with him. His being as passionate about Esports as us gamers made the conversation enlightening for all of us and overall, it was a super productive experience. Also, a huge shout-out to ESFI & Hama for providing us with the gaming peripherals.”

The athletes secured their berth for the tournament by prevailing in the National Esports Championship (NESC 22) organised by the ESFI last year. The rest of the members of the Indian contingent will receive their training kits via courier.

“Hearing Mr. Kalyan answer our queries was quite reassuring for all of us. It was a motivating session that helped us realize how the IOA is supporting our endeavors and taking an active effort to further broaden the scope of Esports in India,” said League of Legends athlete Mihir Ranjan.

Comprising state-of-the-art gaming accessories including a mouse, mousepad, headset, keyboard and a bag, the training kits will enhance the performance of the country’s athletes when they represent India on the international stage.

“I was really happy to see Indian Olympic Association support us with top-quality facilities. It gives us motivation to perform better and make our country proud. The facilities provided to us will help us step up our game at the Asian Games,” said FIFA athlete Karman Tikka.

While the ESFI has been instrumental in preparing the Indian Esports contingent for the Asian Games, their recent multi-year partnership with FITGMR will be key to enabling a comprehensive training programme that will provide the athletes with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed on the global stage.

“We are extremely thankful to the IOA and Mr. Kalyan Chaubey for sharing their invaluable vision regarding the development of Esports in the country and extending their support in fostering its growth. India’s talented athletes competing at the Asian Games in Hangzhou will serve as a pivotal moment in the country’s Esports journey so far. The training kits presented to them today will equip them in their optimal preparation for the tournament, boosting their performance to let them play at the highest level. Everyone at ESFI is looking forward to working with the IOA to help our athletes make the country proud,” said Mr. Lokesh Suji, Director of ESFI & Vice President of the Asian Esports Federation (AESF).

A New Era of Sports: QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK IS LEADING UK DESTINATION FOR ESPORTS

May 20, 2023 Published by EuropeanGaming.eu

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Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is fast becoming the leading destination for esports in the UK, with its premier esports arena, Copper Box Arena, at the centre of this rapidly growing industry. The arena has already hosted major esports tournaments featuring popular games such as Apex Legends, League of Legends (LoL Esports), Gran Turismo, and Call of Duty, drawing in avid esports fans from all over the world.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park welcomes esports epic League of Legends 20-day tournament at Copper Box Arena.
The leading innovation campus, Here East, on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, is now home to a thriving esports community.
The global games market has more than doubled in value from $70.6Bn in 2012 to $180.1Bn in 2021.
Hub of esports education with courses at Staffordshire University London based at Here East and College of Esports at Lee Valley VeloPark.

This month, the arena, which is operated by Better, the charitable enterprise, is working with League of Legends Esports (LoL) to host the League of Legends Mid-Season Invitational (MSI). This is one of many high-profile events taking place at the third-largest arena in London annually.

LoL Esports is the fastest growing global sport and the pinnacle of competitive gaming with more than 100 professional esport teams and over 860 players. Accessible around the globe on 30+ TV and digital platforms, it is one of the most-watched forms of sports entertainment globally.

The 7,500 seater arena’s flexibility enables it to accommodate the diverse event set-ups different esports events require from a full auditorium, to accommodating event and expo combined, from end stage to centre stage to projection onto the field of play itself.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said:

“It’s clear that Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is a global leader in esports. The Park is harnessing this growing industry, becoming a hub for skills training and jobs in the sector, and helping to create a better, more prosperous London for all. The eyes of the gaming world will be on the Copper Box Arena this month, as tens of thousands of visitors take part in the exciting programme of events, with millions more joining in online.”

Lyn Garner, Chief Executive of the London Legacy Development Corporation, said:

“Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park has become a leading destination for esports in the UK. The Copper Box Arena is the perfect venue to host these global spectaculars playing to an audience of millions around the world. With many events choosing to return year after year, the Arena has established itself as the capital’s prime esports venue.

“This phenomena is about much more than the events, with courses for people wanting to develop their skills and a growing cluster of businesses offering a career in the sector. We are creating an ecluster that benefits the London and UK economy as well as having a reputation as a world leader in this high-tech, fast moving industry.”

It also marks two years since the publication of a landmark report by Here East and supported by the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) which outlined a roadmap to create a world-class esports cluster that will drive job creation and bring an industry worth $180bn globally to east London. The innovation campus, based in the heart of East London, has been instrumental in promoting the sector and positioning the park as a hub for this rapidly growing industry.

The campus is home to a world leading production, broadcast, tournament, and program design hub, specifically serving the global esports community. As well as Staffordshire University London who are offering undergraduate degrees in digital courses, centered on the gaming and computer sectors. Lee Valley VeloPark, home to the College of esports, is also a key part of the growing esports cluster in the park, providing state-of-the-art facilities for esports athletes and enthusiasts.

Gavin Poole, CEO of Here East, said:

“We are proud that Here East is playing a fundamental role in shaping how the next generation of talent learn about esports, gaming and the industries of the future. Alongside our partners and the businesses and academia based on campus, we are truly realizing East London’s potential to establish a globally significant urban testbed delivering on ideas that are going to power the future economies.”

Miles Eady, Commercial Events Manager at Copper Box Arena, said:

“I am excited to see the rise of esports on Queen Elizabeth Olympics Park and hugely proud to be part of the emergence of Copper Box Arena as the UK’s premier esports venue. The convergence of traditional sports and gaming creates a dynamic and inclusive space for all to come together and compete at the highest level.”

Esports has garnered immense popularity, with viewership for events rivalling that of traditional sports, and the park is at the forefront of embracing this global phenomenon. As esports continues to capture the hearts of many, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is positioning itself as a leading destination for esports in the UK, offering a dynamic and cutting-edge environment for esports tournaments, athletes, and fans alike.

BLAST launches ‘Away From Keyboard’ to promote healthy & balanced lifestyle at last ever CS:GO Major

May 16, 2023 Published by EuropeanGaming.eu

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Campaign will launch in Paris during the last ever CS:GO Major this week

Famous faces from esports & Counter-Strike, including Jacob “Pimp” Winneche, will help promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle as part of campaign

BLAST has partnered with leading global healthcare company Novo Nordisk to launch ‘Away From Keyboard’

Tuesday, 16th May 2023: Ahead of this week’s historic last ever CS:GO Major in Paris, BLAST has launched its ‘Away From Keyboard’ campaign to help promote a healthy and balanced lifestyle in esports and gaming.

BLAST has partnered with leading global healthcare company Novo Nordisk to launch ‘Away From Keyboard’. The campaign will look to drive change, inspire the gaming community and promote a healthy and balanced lifestyle when outside of the server and away from the computer.

The collaboration will utilise ambassadors, the global broadcast and in-arena activations to drive change and inspire healthier choices in millions of gamers and esports fans across the world. The campaign will feature a documentary series, where the biggest names in esports will share their personal journeys to obtaining a more balanced lifestyle and how they unplug and relax away from the bright lights and pressure of competitive gaming – with Paris Major broadcast analyst Jacob “Pimp” Winneche starring in the first episode.

The campaign will be launched at the BLAST.tv Major, where the world’s best CS:GO players from 24 teams will descend onto Paris to compete for a $1.25 million prize pool and the chance to claim bragging rights as the world’s best Counter-Strike team. This week’s event will draw over 50k fans and be broadcast globally in more than 100+ territories and in 24 different languages.

Robbie Douek, CEO at BLAST, said: “Maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle is such an important part of competing as an esports professional, as well as for the wider gaming community. We are delighted to be teaming up with Novo Nordisk for this exciting new initiative. Away From Keyboard (AFK) will look to promote the understanding that excellence in performance as well as physical and mental wellbeing can best be achieved by striking the right balance between gaming and being away from keyboard.”

Jacob “Pimp” Winneche, broadcast analyst and former CS:GO player, said: “Striking a balance between gaming and staying active is absolutely essential – balance is key to everything, both as a casual and professional gamer. Having an active lifestyle away from the keyboard allows you to have a more rewarding gaming session while staying motivated and energetic.”

Introducing the Valhallan Esports League: a new competitive gaming experience for youth esports teams in the UK and Europe

May 13, 2023 Published by EuropeanGaming.eu

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Valhallan Esports League (VHEL), a youth esports league exclusively designed for youth esports with players aged 10-16 years, is excited to announce its launch in the UK and Europe. The new initiative expands the US-based league’s footprint following three years of growth in North America.

This summer season, starting on June 12th, the league is inviting coach-led youth esports teams of 2-5 players to participate for free, in a thrilling opportunity to compete across a variety of popular games. The league is open to teams associated with schools, clubs, community organisations, LAN centres and independent teams.

The league features five highly popular esports titles: Valorant, Overwatch 2, Rocket League, Apex Legends and Fortnite. For this initial season, the registration fee that normally starts from £57 per team per season for non-Valhallan teams is waived, offering a competitive, safe and fun platform for young gamers to showcase their skills and teamwork.

Christopher Baarstad, Vice President of League Operations, said, “After three successful years of shaping the North American youth esports landscape with club teams and scholastic programmes, we’re thrilled to expand our reach and bring the unparalleled VHEL experience to the UK and Europe. Youth teams will have a unique opportunity to compete, develop their skills and foster lasting friendships. The VHEL difference lies in our unique approach, offering a supportive, affordable and anti-toxic league environment that has already attracted over 100 organisations and 2,000 student-players in the US. Now our aim is to create a vibrant gaming community that empowers kids to engage in healthy competition and have fun across the UK and Europe too.”

Registration for the league is open until June 11th, and teams can sign up on the Valhallan Esports League website. Participants will compete against other teams from the UK and Europe throughout the season. Moreover, twice a year, they will also have the opportunity to compete against their counterparts from the US arm of the league, adding an exciting international dimension to the competition.

The Valhallan Esports League is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and enjoyable environment for young gamers, emphasising fair play, sportsmanship and teamwork. With this launch, the organisation looks forward to fostering a thriving esports community for kids across the UK and Europe.

Here’s what coach-led teams in the US like so much about the league:

Safety & Collegiality – the highly moderated Discord server and strict anti-toxicity rules ensure a positive, collegial experience for all participants. VHEL prioritises safety and fair play, relieving the fear and anxiety of allowing kids to play others online, so coaches can focus on what matters most – guiding their teams to a successful, educational and fun season.

Cost Effective – VHEL keeps costs as low as possible to sustain league operations. The pricing model is based on a “team” model as opposed to the notorious “pay per player” model, so that teams are free to use roster cap sizes and substitutes without additional costs.

Unparalleled Support for Teams – VHEL understands the importance of timely assistance, which is why a dedicated support team is available around the clock via Discord, especially during crucial match-up times.

Competitive Divisional Play – forget the standard swiss model – VHEL’s divisional play structure guarantees exciting, evenly matched contests that foster growth and skill development. Divisional champions advance to face other top teams in the playoffs.

Volvic extends partnership with BIG by two years

May 9, 2023 Published by EuropeanGaming.eu

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Heading into 2023 together, Volvic and BIG have agreed to extend their partnership for another two years until the end of 2024

Working together since 2020, Volvic has provided incredible support for BIG’s competitive aspirations, being one of the key partners of their League of Legends and Trackmania teams, and making sure the whole BIG Family is properly hydrated. Over the course of the past three years, BIG and Volvic have worked on campaigns such as the Volvic Charity Race – an annual Trackmania tournament organized together with players and influencers to raise funds for charity projects.

BIG’s League of Legends team is one of the most distinguished ones in the Prime League with numerous trophies under their belts, reaching second place in the PRM Super Cup most recently. Representing the BIG colors are two of the best German Trackmania drivers as well: Dennis “massa” Lotze and Nico

“GranaDy” Gyarmati. The two form a duo in the recently established Trackmania World Tour circuit, where BIG participates as a member team.
Moving forward, Volvic extends their portfolio of sponsored titles to BIG’s CS:GO division, including the BIG OMEN Academy and BIG EQUIPA, the organization’s talent development project and women’s Counter-Strike team, respectively. BIG Chroma, the female and non-binary League of Legends talent project of BIG will also be supported by Volvic.

Statement Daniel Finkler, CEO Bigleet GmbH – Berlin International Gaming (BIG):
Following the beginning of our partnership with Volvic in 2020, I am very pleased that we will continue our journey for at least two more years until the end of the season in 2024. Volvic has contributed significantly to our sporting successes with its great support over the past three years and has now decided to further expand its commitment to BIG. In addition to the ongoing partnership in League Of Legends and Trackmania, Volvic will also support our CS:GO teams including the BIG OMEN Academy and BIG EQUIPA. Furthermore, I am very happy that Volvic supports our ambition to promote tolerance and diversity in esports by adding the BIG Chroma team to its partner list. We now look forward to 2023 and the many exciting projects we will implement together in the future. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Volvic for their trust and great support over the past three years!

Statement Antoine Hours, Marketing Director EDP & Waters Germany, Danone Deutschland GmbH:
We are pleased to continue and extend our cooperation with Berlin International Gaming. As market leader for still natural mineral water**, we are happy to be ‘Hydration Partner’ with Volvic to the growing esports community. Of course, we will continue to provide the right refreshment for the BIG players. We are looking forward to another successful season and are rooting for the teams.

ESFI onboards FITGMR Inc. for Training & Skill development of Indian Esports Athlete

May 8, 2023 Published by EuropeanGaming.eu

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The Esports Federation of India (ESFI) has partnered with FITGMR Inc., a renowned Esports technology and training firm, to create a top-notch player and coaching development initiative to foster healthy, high-performing, and sustainable growth within the Indian Esports industry.

The partnership, which is set to span multiple years, will see FITGMR working closely with ESFI teams providing in-game coaching and performance training. By utilizing cutting-edge technology, curriculum, and a comprehensive coach training program this partnership will empower India’s competitive players to train and develop the skills they need to play and perform at their best.

Additionally, FITGMR will also be providing comprehensive training to coaches throughout India, equipping them with the expertise and understanding required to guide players toward success.

“We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with FITGMR that will bring a wealth of resources to our players, helping them to take their game to the next level. ESFI is committed to providing the best possible environment for its athletes to excel in the world of competitive gaming and this partnership is a testament to our “Athlete-First” approach which will fuel the much-needed growth in the grind of our athletes. With prestigious tournaments such as the Asian Games, World Esports Championships, Global Esports Games coming up, FITGMR’s team of experienced coaches as well as their unique approach to training and development will help our athletes not only hone their skills to reach their full potential but also give them a competitive edge to excel on the international stage. We are excited for the positive impact this association will bring and are looking forward to commencing with it,” said Mr. Lokesh Suji, Director, Esports Federation of India & Vice President of the Asian Esports Federation (AESF)

Having partnered with the globally distinguished Esports organization Cloud9 as well as the International Esports Federation, FITGMR has a proven track record of training players to help them reach peak performance levels and build a foundation for long-term success. By partnering with ESFI, the company will aid the growth of the country’s gamers by not only developing healthy habits and mindsets but also providing the data, in-game coaching, and feedback that the players require.

“ESFI and FITGMR are both committed to delivering results and doing it the right way. Having the opportunity to create the proper infrastructure, with player physical and mental health incorporated from the outset, means players will thrive in their games while maintaining a balanced lifestyle. If Esports is to succeed in the long-term, developing an infrastructure like this is paramount. We were deeply impressed by ESFI’s unwavering dedication and commitment to nurturing Indian Esports talent. Collaborating with them is a great honor and privilege for us.” said Kristin Anderson, CEO and Co-Founder of FITGMR.

As per the recent ‘Windows of Opportunity’ report by FICCI-EY, The number of Esports players across all competitive level games in India increased from 600,000 in 2021 to 1 million in 2022, and the number is expected to reach 2.5 million in 2023.

The partnership between ESFI and FITGMR represents a significant step forward for Esports athletes’ well-being and highlights the importance of physical fitness and health in the Esports industry.

Saudi Thai Esports Invitational Friendly Match First Leg to be hosted by Pattaya City, Chonburi Thailand

April 29, 2023 Published by EuropeanGaming.eu

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Thailand Esports Federation (TESF) and Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) are pleased to announce the first Esports invitational event between the two countries, with the first leg to be held in Pattaya City, Chonburi Province Thailand from 28th to 30th April 2023.

The event comes as part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in September 2022 during The Next World Forum and Gamers 8 Festival in Riyadh last year between the two National Esports Federation to foster bilateral relations between the two nations and to explore opportunities for future collaboration and cooperation amongst Saudi Esports Federation and Thailand Esports Federation.

TESF President, Mr. Santi Lothong, said, “We are thrilled to host the first leg of the Esports invitational event with Saudi Arabia. The MOU signed between the two federations is an essential step towards fostering a strong relationship between our countries, and this event marks a significant milestone in the growth of the Esports industry not just only in Thailand but for Saudi Esports Industry as well, if not regionally in Asia but other parts of the world can adopt and replicate what both Saudi and Thai has historically achieved.”

SEF President HRH Prince Faisal Bin Bandar Bin Sultan Al Saud added, “This match is more than just a friendly competition – it’s an opportunity to shape our skills and exchange cultures. The esports industry is growing rapidly, and this match is a testament to that growth. It’s also a chance to bring together two diverse nations and foster a mutual understanding of each other’s skills, values, and cultures. Esports is an amazing way to bring people together and show how similar our lives are.

Through this match, players from Saudi Arabia and Thailand can come together and show the world what it means to be a part of a global community.”

The event will take place in Pattaya City, Thailand between the 28th and 30th April 2023, and is an opportunity for Thailand and Pattaya City to develop its tourism industry with great international sporting event and attracts international tourists to the region as a major sporting destination. Pattaya City came in as co-host of this event due to its large and vibrant gaming community with the second largest number of gamers in Thailand, as well as the city’s potential to become a sports hub in the country, Pattaya City is an ideal location for Esports events.

Pattaya City Mayor Mr. Poramet Ngamphichet said “Our city of Pattaya aims to introduce a new sports trend and raise awareness of esports among the people, youth, students, and the community at large. By embracing the use of technology and leveraging its benefits, we hope to stimulate the economy of Pattaya and Chonburi. This event also presents an opportunity to foster stronger relations between Saudi Arabia and Thailand, especially in Pattaya, while showcasing the potential of Pattaya tourism and creating more opportunities for Saudi tourists to visit our city.”

As the host of the first leg of this event, Pattaya City is proud and honored to welcome both National Teams and His Royal Highness Prince Faisal Bin Bandar Bin Sultan Al Saud, of the royal family of Saudi Arabia and President of the Saudi Esports Federation (SEF), leading the Saudi esports athletes to attend this friendly match.

The athletes from both countries will gather in Central Pattaya Mall venue and compete and defend their flag in friendly matches in two popular game titles in the region: DOTA 2 and STREET FIGHTER V. The official friendly matches between Saudi Arabia and Thailand will take place on the 30th April 2023. The format will be a best of 9 matches for STREET FIGHTER V and best of 3 matches for DOTA 2. The athletes will have the opportunity to warm up before the official start of the friendly match. The warmup will take place on the 28th and 29th April with a format of best of 9 matches for STREET FIGHTER 5 and a format of best of 2 matches for DOTA 2.

In addition, a panel will be held at the venue on during the Opening Ceremony on the 28th April 2023, with representatives from both National Esports Federation Ms Rawan Albutairi, Senior Director of International Affairs of Saudi Esports Federation. Mr. Samart Benjamin Assarasakorn, Chief Executive Secretary of Thailand Esports Federation, and Mr. Boban Totovski, General Secretary of the International Esports Federation (IESF) will be our VIP guests panelists.

The second leg of the Saudi Thai Esports Invitational Friendly Match will follow and be held in Saudi Arabia. The event is an excellent opportunity for both countries to showcase their Esports talents and to establish themselves as key players in the global Esports industry. Both national Esports Governing Bodies are committed to promoting Esports as a professional competitive activity as well as to strengthen the ties between Saudi Arabia and Thailand. Both federations believe that this event will contribute significantly to the growth of the Esports industry, and they look forward to future collaborations and cooperation, starting from the second leg of the Invitational Esports Friendly Match to be held in Saudi Arabia later this year.

Chief Executive Secretary of Thailand Esports Federation Mr. Samart Benjamin Assarasakorn concluded: “The Saudi Thai Esports Invitational Friendly Match marks a significant milestone for growth of the Esports industry in Asia, and is the first step towards fostering a strong collaboration between SEF and TESF as part of the Memorandum of Understanding between the two National Esports Federations signed during The Next World Forum and Gamers 8 Festival in Riyadh at the end of 2022, which will not only span tournaments such as this one, but also education, exchange of knowledge, technology and other fields pertaining to Esports. I am very much looking forward to seeing the display of skills and sportsmanship from both Saudi and Thai athletes in the upcoming friendly match, as well as to seeing the cultural exchange and friendships that will arise from this event.”

IESF Expands Female’s CS:GO Tournament for 2023 World Esports Championships

April 25, 2023 Published by EuropeanGaming.eu

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The International Esports Federation (IESF) today announced the expansion of the women’s CS:GO tournament from four to 10 teams at the 2023 World Esports Championships Finals, taking place from August 24 to September 4 in Iași, Romania. The expansion comes after the success of the inaugural installment of the tournament at the 2022 WE Championships Finals in Bali, Indonesia.

The 2022 WE Championships was a historic moment for female gamers, as the introduction of the women’s CS:GO tournament drew large crowds and was a massive stride towards greater inclusion in esports. IESF aims to uplift and empower female gamers in all competitions, and the women’s CS:GO tournament allows for more of the world’s best all-female teams to compete at the highest level.

IESF President Vlad Marinescu said: “We are thrilled to announce the expansion of the women’s CS:GO tournament at this year’s World Esports Championships. This reflects the progress we have made in making esports more inclusive for all. We can’t wait to see what these incredible teams will bring to this year’s competition. IESF strongly believes in removing barriers to access for female gamers, and providing them with more opportunities to shine on the world’s biggest stage.”

IESF Chief Marketing Officer Ana Karakolevska said: “I am proud of IESF for leading the charge in making esports more inclusive for all. We have made rapid progress in just a few years and IESF hopes to continue providing opportunities to promote gender equality in the World Esports Family and beyond. We can’t wait to watch 10 of the world’s best teams battle it out in fast-paced CS:GO action in Iași!”

IESF’s regional qualifiers for the WE Championships will get underway in May and June, and the top ten female CS:GO teams will secure their spots in the Finals, which will begin in August. IESF also works with several organizations, including Women in Games and Girl Gamer Esports Festival, to help foster and promote a safe and equitable environment for women in the esports industry.

Tag: eSports

Esports Championships Amplifies the Excitement of Highly Anticipated European Games in Poland

Lion Gaming Partners with Oddin.gg to Supercharge Esports Offering

ESFI Conducts Special Meet with IOA

A New Era of Sports: QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK IS LEADING UK DESTINATION FOR ESPORTS

BLAST launches ‘Away From Keyboard’ to promote healthy & balanced lifestyle at last ever CS:GO Major

Introducing the Valhallan Esports League: a new competitive gaming experience for youth esports teams in the UK and Europe

Here’s what coach-led teams in the US like so much about the league:

Volvic extends partnership with BIG by two years

ESFI onboards FITGMR Inc. for Training & Skill development of Indian Esports Athlete

Saudi Thai Esports Invitational Friendly Match First Leg to be hosted by Pattaya City, Chonburi Thailand

IESF Expands Female’s CS:GO Tournament for 2023 World Esports Championships

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