The Esports World Cup Foundation recently revealed the 40 esports organizations selected for its 2025 Club Partner Program. With a substantial budget of up to $20M USD, this program is designed to empower esports teams to expand their global audience through innovative marketing strategies and content creation. The selected teams will receive up to $1M USD each to promote the highly anticipated Esports World Cup competition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, scheduled for 2025.
The program, which has expanded from 30 teams in 2024 to 40 in 2025, allows these teams to create exciting campaigns that lead up to and run throughout the competition. These initiatives will showcase the thrilling action of the eight-week event, drawing attention to the Esports World Cup, and potentially increasing engagement in online betting markets, such as those available on platforms like 12bet.
Selected Teams for 2025
The 40 teams chosen for the Esports World Cup 2025 Club Partner Program represent a mix of established names and rising stars in the esports industry. Among the teams selected are renowned esports organizations like 100 Thieves, FaZe Clan, G2 Esports, Team Liquid, Fnatic, and Cloud 9. Additionally, international teams such as EDward Gaming, Natus Vincere (NAVI), and Team Vitality have also earned their place in this prestigious program.
With Tencent’s support, organizers chose esports organizations from China, highlighting the event’s global nature and the importance of international collaboration. These teams will leverage their social media presence and content creation channels to build excitement around the Esports World Cup and bring new fans into the fold, potentially influencing betting trends in online platforms like 12bet.
A Look Back at 2024 Teams
While many teams are returning from the 2024 Esports World Cup Partner Program, some notable organizations. Teams such as Spacestation Gaming, NRG Esports, and TSM, were excluded this year. These changes come after last year’s program. Which saw some teams fail to meet disclosure regulations when promoting the event on social media. It remains to be seen whether the 2025 program will address these issues with updated rules, ensuring full transparency for both esports fans and online betting enthusiasts.
The Esports World Cup: What’s at Stake?
The Esports World Cup is set to become a marquee event in the global esports calendar. The competition spans eight weeks each year, typically from July to August. Fans can expect to place wagers on match outcomes, player performances, and team victories. Thus, making it an exciting time for those looking to get involved in online betting markets.
The event is a continuation of the Saudi Esports Federation’s Gamers8. Managed by the Esports World Cup Foundation. The competition receives substantial backing from the Saudi government’s Public Investment Fund. This reinforces the nation’s commitment to becoming a leading esports hub. The competition is operated by ESL FACEIT Group (EFG), a subsidiary of Saudi-owned Savvy Games Group. They are a key player in tournament organization and broadcast production.
The Controversies Behind the Event
Despite its growing popularity, the Esports World Cup has faced criticism for its ties to the Saudi Arabian government. Critics argue that the event, alongside other sports projects funded by the government. Serves as a form of “sportswashing” to divert attention from controversial human rights practices. Issues related to women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and military actions in Yemen have been cited as concerns. With organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch raising alarms over the implications of these events.
Final Thoughts: Betting on Esports Growth
As the 2025 Esports World Cup approaches, top esports organizations and event promoters are set to drive significant growth. With platforms like 12bet offering exciting opportunities to wager on the action, fans are in for an exhilarating experience both in the arena and online. Stay tuned for the latest updates as we approach the world’s premier esports competition.
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