RIYADH: Faisal bin Horman, Chief Product Officer of the Esports World Cup Foundation, has promised that the 2025 Esports World Cup will be the “best esports tournament ever.”
Speaking during an interview at the Sports Investment Forum in Riyadh, Homran emphasized the significance of esports as an emerging industry, with growing opportunities for investors and stakeholders.
"Sports is a major industry, and esports is one of the newcomers. Forums like this help the private sector engage with future investors and provide credibility," Homran explained.
Homran, who leads the development of esports in Saudi Arabia, predicts that by 2034, the Kingdom will host the world’s top two sports events football’s FIFA World Cup and the Esports World Cup.
He also described the upcoming 2025 tournament as a must-see event for gaming enthusiasts, both online and in-person. “It will be the best esports experience for anyone who loves gaming,” he said.
Saudi Arabia recently announced its role as host for the first-ever Esports Olympic Games in 2027, a significant milestone in its push to become a global leader in esports.
Homran believes this will elevate Saudi Arabia's international standing.
Just as Japan and China have used video gaming to highlight their cultures, Saudi Arabia plans to showcase its own heritage through esports.
"It's a great opportunity for us to connect our community culture with esports," said Homran.
Aligned with its Vision 2030 goals, Saudi Arabia is diversifying its economy and focusing on advanced manufacturing industries like petrochemicals and renewable energy.
The Kingdom also aims to establish itself as a regional hub for sports and entertainment, with events like the Esports World Cup playing a key role in that strategy.
The three-day Sports Investment Forum in Riyadh serves as a platform for leaders, officials, and entrepreneurs to explore investment opportunities and forge partnerships within the Kingdom's expanding sports industry.
