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British Esports and Saudi Esports Federation Announce Groundbreaking Partnership
British Esports has entered into a contentious partnership with the Saudi Esports Federation, resulting in a substantial social media backlash despite it being hailed as a “historic agreement.” The collaboration will feature competitive events at the National Esports Performance Campus in Sunderland and the Gamers8 Festival in Saudi Arabia in the coming year, with home and away matches involving top athletes from both countries. This groundbreaking agreement was formalised during the United Kingdom Government Department for Business and Trade during its first Esports Trade Mission to Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.
The partnership, attended by notable figures such as UK Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Neil Crompton, British Esports CEO Chester King, and Saudi Esports Federation President Prince Faisal Bin Bandar bin Sultan, aims to bolster the gaming industry in Saudi Arabia and facilitate international connections. Plans include cultural exchange programs, internships, mentorship opportunities, esports training initiatives, educational initiatives, and collaborative research projects.
Addressing Controversy and Looking Ahead
Chester King, who is also the vice-president of the Global Esports Federation (GEF), anticipates that this collaboration will usher in a “new era for esports in the UK.” “As two of the world’s leading esports federations, our joint efforts will undoubtedly shape the future of the industry, providing incredible opportunities for esports athletes, professionals and enthusiasts alike”, he added. Despite criticism regarding Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and the Saudi regime’s restrictions on freedom of speech and LGBTQ+ rights, British Esports emphasised that they “have not received any monetary contributions from the partnership” and that “inclusivity is fundamental for the growth of esports globally”.
Saudi Arabia has been steadily increasing its influence in the world of esports, with this year’s Global Esports Games scheduled to take place in Riyadh. Additionally, Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud’s recent appointment as Acting President of the International Esports Federation may lead to stronger ties between rival governing bodies.
Prince Faisal highlighted that this partnership is designed to “foster talents and unite the esports community” and “by joining forces, I’m sure that we can create a platform that empowers players, cultivates innovation, and paves the way for a thriving esports industry in both nations and beyond”.
This partnership between British Esports and the Saudi Esports Federation signifies a significant step forward in the global esports industry, with a focus on talent development, innovation, and international cooperation. It aims to make the UK a prominent player in the world of esports and open up new horizons for the industry. Stay tuned for a thrilling season of action, innovation, and limitless potential because, in the world of esports, the game has only just begun.
Source: British eSports: British Esports Signs Agreement with Saudi Esports
