The Esports World Cup 2025 officially launched with a sold-out opening ceremony in Riyadh headlined by global music icon Post Malone, marking the start of a seven-week celebration of esports and gaming, the Esports World Cup Foundation announced on July 15.

The videogame tournament with a record-breaking prize pool of $70mn has more than $38mn dedicated to individual prize pools and over $5mn for qualifying. 

Thousands attended the event at the ANB Arena in Boulevard City, with millions more watching online during performances by Post Malone, DINO of SEVENTEEN, Duckwrth, Telle Smith and Alesso.

The Saudi government has invested millions of Saudi riyals in Esports in recent years, and has received criticism from many in the industry for being accused of "sportswashing," a claim which it has repeatedly denied. Groups such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have highlighted these issues, including human rights. 

The ceremony featured the live debut of "Til My Fingers Bleed," the official Song of the Year for Esports World Cup 2025. The collaboration between DINO of SEVENTEEN, Duckwrth and Telle Smith of The Word Alive combines K-pop, hip-hop and rock elements in a show which would seem unimaginable in Saudi Arabia several years ago.

"Performing at the Esports World Cup opening ceremony was such an eye-opening experience," said DINO of SEVENTEEN. "It was really meaningful for me to connect K-pop with another creative frontier—the gaming world."

Mike McCabe, Chief Operating Officer of the Esports World Cup Foundation, said the ceremony reflects "the spirit of shared passion and the connective power of music and esports, setting the tone for an unforgettable summer."

The ceremony featured a 40-metre mountain stage, tiered ramps and LED ceiling designed by Possible Productions, with augmented reality and dynamic visuals integrated throughout performances.

Celebrity guests included streamer Tyler 1, former NFL star Osi Umenyiora, chess Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, actor Karry Wang and professional gamer Arslan Ash.

The tournament features clubs competing for the Esports World Cup Club Championship across multiple arenas in Boulevard City.

Several teams and games, such as GeoGuessr, withdrew from the Esports World Cup following backlash from users and the broader community, who opposed participation due to Saudi Arabia’s policies. Prominent players and casters have also boycotted events, citing safety and value concern, according to Esports-news.

The event moves around each year previously hosted in locations like Moscow, and has grown in prominence over the past few years, as the industry receives more attention.