VALORANT Joins Esports World Cup 2025 Amid Mixed Fan Reception
VALORANT joins the Esports World Cup (EWC) lineup through a three-year partnership with Riot Games, starting in 2025. The tournament will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, alongside existing Riot titles League of Legends and Teamfight Tactics.
The partnership includes:
- VALORANT's first appearance at EWC
- Global commercial integration
- EWC branding in Riot's competitive circuits
- In-broadcast activations starting at VCT Masters Bangkok (Feb. 20)
The 2025 EWC will feature:
- 23 tournaments across 22 games
- Top international teams and players
- Summer schedule similar to 2024 edition
Gamers striking dynamic poses
Community Response: The announcement has sparked debate within the gaming community. While some celebrate VALORANT's inclusion, others express concerns about Saudi Arabia's human rights record. Tournament organizers maintain that funding comes from sponsorships and host-nation support, not Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.
The esports community remains divided between:
- Supporting industry growth and development
- Concerns about hosting location and ethical implications
- Questions about inclusivity and diversity values
More details about participating organizations will be announced as the tournament approaches.
[All original images maintained in their sequence as provided]
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