ESL Saudi Challenge Returns for 2025 with Two Major Tournaments

The world's leading e-sports company, ESL FACEIT Group (EFG), has announced the return of the ESL Saudi Challenge for 2025. 

Unlike last year, the tournament will feature two editions scheduled for May and December.

This expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global hub for gaming and e-sports.

Key Dates to Know

The May 2025 edition will follow this schedule:

• Open Qualifiers:

  • April 24–26

  • May 1–3

• Playoffs:

  • May 7–8

  • May 14–15

• Grand Final (Live at VOV Gaming):

  • May 30

Franck Guignery, Senior Vice President for the MENA region at EFG, emphasized the significance of these developments. "What's happening in the Kingdom today sets the tone for the future of global e-sports," he stated. "We're witnessing a generation of players with world-class potential. The ESL Saudi Challenge is more than a tournament, it's a launchpad — a gateway that connects Saudi talent to the global esports arena."

The ESL Saudi Challenge serves as an important platform for local gamers to showcase their skills and gain international recognition. 

As reported by EFG, each edition of the 2025 tournament will feature Overwatch 2 as its main title, with competitors vying for a $20,000 prize pool.

Winners will gain direct access to global competitions, possibly a spot in the Esports World Cup or Esports Olympic, as ESL FACEIT and Saudi Arabia are involved in both. 

Tournament organizers have confirmed that the grand finals will feature a live showdown, bringing together the region's top talent in an exciting showcase of competitive gaming.