Electronic Arts (EA) is making waves in the gaming world with its recent announcement that two major esports tournaments will be held in Riyadh this summer. These events—the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) Midseason Playoffs and the EA Sports FC 25 FC Pro World Championship—represent not only significant competitive opportunities for players but also highlight the growing influence of Saudi Arabia in the esports landscape.
The ALGS Midseason Playoffs, a newly introduced event to the Apex Legends competitive schedule, will run from July 10 to 13. This competition will see 40 of the world's best teams battle it out for a share of an impressive $2 million USD prize pool. The stakes are high as they also vie for crucial league points essential for securing a spot in the ALGS World Championship later in the season.
In August, the action continues with the FC Pro World Championship, taking place from August 7 to 10, where elite players from the EA Sports FC community will clash for a total prize pool of $1.5 million. The champion will earn a substantial grand prize of $250,000, making this not only a test of skill but also a chance for players to make significant financial gains.
Fabian Scheuermann, Chief Games Officer at the Esports World Cup Foundation, emphasizes the importance of these tournaments, saying, “The ALGS and FC Pro are two of the most competitive and globally recognized circuits in esports. Together with EA, we’re opening doors for players at every level to compete on the world’s biggest stage.” This statement reflects not just the competitive nature of the events but also the vision of creating a more inclusive and expansive esports ecosystem.
The Esports World Cup itself runs from July to August and is set to be a successor to the retired Gamers8 series. It is organized by the Esports World Cup Foundation, a non-profit entity backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). With the ESL FACEIT Group, a subsidiary of Savvy Games Group, managing production, the event promises to deliver high-quality experiences for both players and fans alike.
However, EA's decision to host these tournaments in Riyadh has not been without controversy. The partnership has faced scrutiny over allegations of "sportswashing," where Saudi Arabia is accused of using major sporting events to divert attention from its human rights record. Critics, including organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have raised concerns about the country’s treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals, freedom of expression, and its involvement in global conflicts.
Despite these challenges, the allure of substantial prize pools and the opportunity to showcase top-tier talent indicates that Saudi Arabia is becoming a pivotal player in the global esports scene. The 2025 Esports World Cup is gearing up to be one of the year's most anticipated events, drawing in not just players and teams but also an audience keen to see the evolution and expansion of competitive gaming.
As ESA prepares for a summer filled with excitement, the broader implications of these tournaments will be watched closely. Will they foster an era of growth and inclusivity, or will the shadow of human rights concerns cloud the undeniable advancements in esports? Only time will reveal the full story behind this ambitious initiative.