Esports World Cup 2025 offers $70M: Will it help grow the scene or control it?
The Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 will offer a $70 million prize pool, the largest in gaming history. This event features over 2,000 players and 200 global teams focusing on top games like Valorant, League of Legends, and more. They will compete in 25 tournaments in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 7 to August 24, 2025.
However, this huge event raises questions about how it will affect the esports scene. This article explores the good and bad sides of this massive event and what it means for the future of esports.
The issue with the $70M prize pool
Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF), sees the $70 million prize pool as a big step forward for esports. However, Reichert also admitted that this kind of prize can disrupt the current esports scene. He said the goal should be to support and grow the existing ecosystem, not harm it.
The event also faces other issues due to its ties with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and the Esports Awards. Critics argue that this partnership is about ‘sportswashing’, where they use sports assets to boost a country's image instead of supporting the community. The EWCF denied these claims and explained that it’s financed through host nation support and sponsorships.
Is the $70M prize a progress or pressure for esports?
The $70 million prize pool could help esports grow or put too much pressure on the industry. While it shows esports has potential, it's unclear if the industry is ready for such a big event.
Smart move
This huge investment is a smart move for esports as it has many benefits:
- Exposure: The big prize will grab media attention, making esports more visible. It will also help esports compete with regular sports and change others’ view of it as a simple hobby.
- Long-term growth: It can help esports build a solid footing. Players may also land bigger deals, join elite teams, and secure solid contracts.
Risky play
Meanwhile, the $70 million prize comes with risks. It may give too much control to large investors and change how the industry works.
- Control: Powerful sponsors may push esports to benefit them, not the community.
- Exclusivity: The focus may shift to top players and teams, leaving smaller or lesser-known gamers with fewer chances.
The balance between progress and influence
The 2025 EWC could shape the future of esports in a good way or send it down the wrong path. As esports grow, players, teams, and fans must stay active and ensure things are fair. How the industry handles this event will decide what comes next—either more doors will open, or some will quietly close.
