Saudi Arabia Chases Esports Dream With Bigger Prize Pot Than PGA
Hundreds of competitors have gathered in Riyadh to compete in the eight-week tournament for a share of a $60m (£47.1m)-prize pot funded by the Arab country.
But the massive contest has divided players, streamers and fans due to it being held in Saudi Arabia, particularly over its stance on LGBT rights.
Critics say the World Cup is an example of “sportswashing”, and the wealthy country is investing heavily in big events to distract from its human rights record.
Esports World Cup Foundation CEO Ralf Reichert spoke to BBC Newsbeat, saying he wants to reassure LGBT fans and players travelling to the event over concerns about their safety in Saudia Arabia.
“Everyone is welcome,” he said, echoing previous statements by the country’s sports minister.
“Everyone can participate in the competition and no-one will be discriminated against. That’s a promise we can give.”
But he added: “In every country in the world, there are different local habits and cultural norms, which you need to adhere to.
“So what we’re telling everyone is, don’t be explicit.
“Act locally to respect the local culture. And I think that’s fair. It’s something that happens all over the world.”
During the tournament, gamers will compete in 21 popular games including Apex Legends, Call of Duty, Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, League of Legends and Fortnite.
“There isn’t anything comparable, any kind of sporting tournament like this in the esports world,” said George Osborn, who writes the Video Games Industry Memo, to Sky News.
