The Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 officially began on July 6 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, bringing together gaming fans and pro players from around the globe. With over 2,000 players from 84 countries and a massive $70 million prize pool, this event is already one of the biggest in esports history.
The grand opening wasn’t just about games. Famous faces like Post Malone, Magnus Carlsen, Tyler1, and NFL star Osi Umenyiora lit up the stage, showing that EWC is more than a tournament it’s a mix of gaming, entertainment, and pop culture.
India Steps Onto the Esports World Cup Stage
We’ve had our ups and downs but the grind has paid off!
We’re through to the Grand Finals of 𝐄𝐖𝐂: 𝐀𝐋𝐆𝐒 𝐌𝐢𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐬! 🚀
Show the boys some love:@Sharky3415 @Jeskoesk @Legacy__au @RogersOCE , they’ve earned every bit of this moment!
This isn’t… pic.twitter.com/qBBFX8Gmdk
— S8UL (@S8ulesports) July 11, 2025
This year is special for India. The popular Indian esports team S8UL Esports is making big moves on the world stage. They’ve qualified for EWC tournaments in Apex Legends and EA FC 25, two of the most competitive games.
Also, Indian player Aaron ‘Happy’ Rivera is playing in the FC Pro 25 Play-ins, where he’ll fight for a remaining spot in the main event.
In chess, Indian masters Nihal Sarin and Aravindh Chithambaram are ready to compete in the Last Chance Qualifier, which will run from July 24 to 26.
Team iQOO SOUL: S8UL’s Strong Partnership
S8UL’s journey is now backed by iQOO, a well-known smartphone brand. This sponsorship has taken the team’s name to the next level they will now play as Team iQOO SOUL.
This isn’t the first time these two teamed up. They previously worked together on Battlegrounds Mobile India, showing that iQOO is serious about supporting Indian gaming talent.
A Small Setback: Mobile Legends Disqualification
Not everything has gone smoothly for S8UL. Their team for Mobile Legends: Bang Bang was disqualified from the Mid-Season Cup 2025 at EWC. The reason? Some of their players also joined a match in Honor of Kings, which broke the rules set by MOONTON Games. It’s a tough loss, but the team remains focused on its other events.
More Indian Talent in Action
A happy @MortalxS8ul has been spotted in riyadh 🤭🐐 pic.twitter.com/LdeAIuSFUD
— S8UL (@S8ulesports) July 11, 2025
India’s presence doesn’t stop with S8UL. The young chess star R Praggnanandhaa is playing as part of Team Liquid’s global squad, one of the top teams in the world.
Meanwhile, Arjun Erigaisi, another big name in Indian chess, is representing Gen.G, a top international esports team he joined in April 2025.
Why This Matters for India
EWC 2025 is a sign that India is no longer on the sidelines in global esports. With talented players, strong teams, and big sponsors, the country is pushing forward in games ranging from shooters to strategy.
The next seven weeks will be packed with action, stories, and big wins. For India, it’s not just about playing it’s about showing the world what this country can do in competitive gaming.
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