Star Sports Network, a prominent Indian sports broadcaster, has acquired the broadcasting rights for the highly anticipated Esports World Cup. Organized by the Esports World Cup Foundation, this multi-title event is poised to be the largest esports and gaming extravaganza to date.
Broadcasting Details
Star Sports Network will stream the Esports World Cup on its Star Sports YouTube channel, as well as broadcast on Star Sports First and Star Sports 2 television channels. The coverage will include eight out of the 21 tournaments featured in the event, with broadcasts available in both English and Hindi. Selected titles for coverage include Counter-Strike 2, Apex Legends, EA Sports FC 24, and Call of Duty: Warzone.
Network’s Esports Venture
This venture into esports broadcasting marks Star Sports Network’s ongoing commitment to the esports industry. Notably, the network entered the scene in 2022 through a collaboration with NODWIN Gaming to cover the Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) Masters series.
Event Overview
The Esports World Cup kicks off on July 3rd and spans until August 25th, hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event has garnered support from various partners, including sportswear brand Adidas and short-form video platform TikTok, highlighting its global significance.
Strategic Vision
Vikram Passi, Head of Marketing for Sports at Disney Star, emphasized the event’s role in expanding the network’s audience and fostering greater acceptance of esports, particularly within India’s thriving gaming community and on a global scale. The broadcast aims to engage both esports enthusiasts and a younger demographic, promoting broader appreciation for competitive gaming.
FAQ
What titles will Star Sports Network broadcast during the Esports World Cup? Star Sports Network will broadcast eight tournaments from the Esports World Cup, including games like Counter-Strike 2, Apex Legends, EA Sports FC 24, and Call of Duty: Warzone.
When does the Esports World Cup take place? The Esports World Cup runs from July 3rd to August 25th, hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Why has the Esports World Cup faced criticism? The event has faced criticism due to concerns over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, despite attracting significant sponsorship and partnership support.
How does Star Sports Network view the role of esports in its broadcasting strategy? Star Sports Network sees esports as a growing force, particularly within India’s gaming culture, aiming to energize the gaming community and broaden esports’ appeal through its broadcasting initiatives.
