stc is a leading and founding partner of the eSports World Cup for the next three years
stc Group, the region's leading digital enabler, announced the renewal of its strategic partnership with the eSports World Cup Foundation (EWCF), continuing its role as a founding partner and president of the 2025 eSports World Cup. This partnership extends until 2027, affirming stc's commitment to supporting the eSports ecosystem and enhancing the digital entertainment industry by providing the latest technical solutions.
stc continues its role in providing a world-class technical infrastructure through advanced investments in the latest communications solutions, the provision of game servers, and 24/7 network monitoring. During the inaugural edition in 2024, stc operated a specialized network center with more than 100 experts to ensure high-speed network performance and low latency, contributing to a seamless and exceptional digital experience for gamers and fans alike. Olaiyan Mohammed Al Wetaid, Group CEO of stc, commented on the partnership, saying: “stc is proud to continue its collaboration with EWC. This global event is pivotal to achieving one of Saudi Arabia’s goals of becoming the premier hub for eSports. Our contributions extend beyond gaming, as we enable entire ecosystems to keep pace with the rapid digital transformation of our era. We look forward to seeing this event come to life again this year.”
Ralph Richard, CEO of the eSports World Cup, said: “The renewed partnership with stc embodies a shared commitment to delivering an exceptional eSports experience on a global scale. Through its investments in connectivity, broadcasting, and fan experience, stc is actively contributing to shaping the future of digital entertainment in Saudi Arabia and beyond.”
stc is also broadcasting this year’s eSports World Cup tournaments on its digital platform, stc tv, as the official broadcast partner. The platform provides live and comprehensive coverage of all competitions, supported by an advanced digital infrastructure that ensures high-quality broadcasting, uninterrupted continuity, and a seamless viewing experience for audiences in Saudi Arabia and around the world. The experience also includes innovative digital and field activations aimed at enhancing fan engagement and highlighting stc's diverse digital entertainment content.
As part of its strategic partnership with the tournament, stc is launching a new and innovative activation for its loyalty program, "Qitaf," through a series of interactive field experiences specifically designed for youth and tech-savvy users. The initiative includes gamified suites, app downloads using QR codes, and instant rewards ranging from exclusive gifts to loyalty points. This step comes as part of strengthening "Qitaf"'s position as an integrated digital lifestyle platform, offering unique engagement opportunities for all telecom users.
As the named partner, three of the tournament's facilities bear the stc name:
1. stc TV e-Gaming Studios.
2. stc Gaming Hall.
3. stc e-Gaming Arena.
These facilities serve as key hubs for hosting major tournaments, organizing community events, and delivering innovative digital experiences during the event.
The eSports World Cup will return to Riyadh from July 7 to August 24, 2025, with the participation of more than 2,000 professional gamers and 200 international clubs representing over 100 countries, competing in 25 tournaments across 24 eSports titles. This year's tournament boasts the largest prize pool in the history of eSports, exceeding $70 million.
In addition to the competitions, attendees will enjoy a comprehensive entertainment program featuring numerous events and activities celebrating gaming culture, amidst a lively atmosphere of interaction between fans and gamers from around the world.