The Esports World Cup Foundation has just announced a landmark partnership with DAZN, a global OTT sports streaming application. For years, DAZN has been one of the biggest names in sports like boxing, soccer, and basketball, but now it’s set to take on the most valuable esports event in history. Up until now, esports has been a light-touch product on DAZN, with coverage being few and far between – but this announcement is set to change that.
It was revealed on social media that this partnership aims to ‘bring esports to a wider audience’, and that it’ll be broadcast for free on DAZN. Several years ago, DAZN was started as a simple streaming application, but it has become a multimedia titan and is available on almost every set-top box and mobile device worldwide. This groundbreaking deal will utilise DAZN’s next-generation streaming infrastructure to get thousands more eyes on the Esports World Cup.
In a statement published on LinkedIn by Ralf Reichert, the CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, it said:
‘DAZN’s unparalleled expertise in delivering electrifying sports moments to fans around the world is set to elevate the Esports World Cup to new heights. Get ready for a viewing experience that’s as action-packed and immersive as the competition itself!
This collaboration represents a major step forward, bridging the gap between traditional sports and competitive gaming. Together, we’re bringing esports to a wider audience and showcasing the incredible skill and passion that drive this global phenomenon.’
From July 3 to August 25, the Esports World Cup – which boasts a record $60 million prize pool – will unfold in Riyadh. It’s the most ambitious esports event ever, boasting representation from the best esports games in the business:
For a few months, there have been some concerns raised regarding the event, given that it takes place in Saudi Arabia. Many developers and publishers have been accused of ‘securing a bag’ but forgoing their morals, based on Saudi Arabia’s stance on LGBTQ people and the country’s treatment of journalists.
DAZN stepping up to secure a broadcast-based spot is a milestone for the industry. Until now, esports has had very little representation on mainstream platforms, with most broadcasters and streaming applications typically tucking esports fixtures and features away as a footnote or a subtle category somewhere on their propositions. With the millions of subscribers that DAZN has – and the assumption that the platform has been handsomely paid for this partnership – the Esports World Cup will likely be front and centre on the app later this summer.
For more esports news, stay tuned to Esports.net
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