Stc Group And Esports World Cup Foundation Forge Strategic Partnership

stc Group, Saudi Arabia's top telecommunications and digital transformation company, has announced a strategic partnership with the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF). This collaboration makes stc Group the "elite" and "founding" partner of the first Esports World Cup (EWC), which will be held in Riyadh from July 3 to August 25. The agreement was signed by Faisal Al-Saber, stc Group's chief commercial officer, and Ralf Reichert, EWCF's chief executive.

Riyadh is gearing up to become a global hub for esports enthusiasts over eight weeks. Fans at Riyadh Boulevard City will watch their favourite players and clubs compete in 22 tournaments. The total prize pool exceeds $60 million, marking the highest in esports history. Visitors can also enjoy thousands of events, activities, and interactive shows suitable for all ages.

stc Group will provide its leading telecommunications and IT services to cover all event facilities. They will offer advanced communication and internet technologies to support tournament competitions. Additionally, they will ensure the best digital infrastructure for participating players. The stc Group name will feature prominently in three key areas: the stc Arena, the stc TV World Cup Studios where matches will occur, and the stc Play Gaming Hall for community tournaments and interactive public activities.

"Our partnership with the Esports World Cup confirms our vision for the future of the digital entertainment sector," said Olayan Alwetaid, stc Group chief executive. "At stc Group, we strive to provide world-class communication technologies and offer the latest and most distinguished technical solutions and services during the tournament period to contribute to establishing the Kingdom's position as a destination for esports."

The partnership highlights both organisations' commitment to promoting innovation in the digital field and supporting the esports community. According to Reichert, "We are proud to partner with stc Group, a leader in the digital and communications sector. This event will be a milestone in esports, and it is natural that our most prominent partners in their field will be with us."

The collaboration aligns with Vision 2030 goals by supporting entertainment sector development in Saudi Arabia. It aims to establish Saudi Arabia as a destination for games and esports. The presence of stc Group is expected to make this event a title for global esports and a centre for innovative digital technologies that provide fans, athletes, and specialised clubs with an exceptional experience.

Enhancing Digital Infrastructure

stc Group plays a crucial role in supporting Saudi Arabia's efforts to become a digital hub in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The group has strengthened digital infrastructure by expanding its fifth-generation (5G) cellular network across more than 75 cities in Saudi Arabia.

This expansion is part of their broader efforts to support digital development in the region. By providing advanced communication technologies during the EWC event, stc Group aims to showcase its capabilities on an international stage.

The partnership between stc Group and EWCF underscores their shared vision of advancing digital entertainment while fostering innovation within Saudi Arabia’s growing esports community.

With inputs from SPA