Qiddiya City looking to become a center of esports
With the Esports World Cup set to land in Qiddiya City,
Saudi Arabia, the stage is being set for the city to emerge as a key global hub
for competitive video gaming.
"Qiddiya has evolved significantly since its inception
in 2018, initially conceived as a small-scale tourism project in Saudi Arabia.
Over the past six years, it has transformed into a monumental endeavor,"
remarked Mike Milanov, chair of the advisory board for gaming and esports at
Qiddiya City.
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The event organizer ESL FaceIt Group, supported by Saudi
investors, brings over two decades of experience in production and broadcasting
to Qiddiya. This expertise not only ensures top-notch quality, attracting
gamers, fans, sponsors, and investors, but also fuels optimism for the
resurgence of esports.
"We approach esports with a holistic perspective,
considering not only the organizational aspect but also the community's
needs," explained Craig Levine, co-CEO of ESL FaceIt Group. "We
address various factors such as latency, optimal training facilities, and venue
design tailored for esports."
This partnership is poised to be a significant economic
driver for the region. The influx of international tournaments and events is
expected to generate substantial tourism revenue, with North American teams
eyeing a share of the $60 million Esports World Cup prize pool scheduled for
this summer.
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Beyond the financial incentives, participation in globally
renowned events offers invaluable exposure and competitive advantages for
teams. A source within a team highlighted the importance, stating,
"Players aspire to compete in such prestigious events, and
non-participation could hinder recruitment efforts in the future."
Qiddiya's infrastructure plans include cutting-edge arenas
and training facilities equipped with high-speed internet, top-tier acoustics,
4D haptic seating, and advanced video display technology designed by
architectural firm Populous.
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Milanov hinted at forthcoming announcements regarding new
infrastructure and buildings in the lead-up to the event. "We are set to
unveil a range of world-class venues, some exclusively dedicated to esports,
ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve throughout the year,"
Milanov affirmed.
Source: https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/
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