More Games Added to 2025 Esports World Cup

The Esports World Cup Foundation has expanded the roster for its 2025 competition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, by adding Chess.com, the racing title RENNSPORT, and the battle royale games Crossfire and PUBG: Battlegrounds. These additions bring the total number of announced titles for the eight-week summer event to 18. While financial terms for these specific inclusions remain undisclosed, the event continues to build on its multi-title format, which spans from early July through late August.

The inclusion of Chess.com marks a notable expansion for the tournament, featuring a $1.5 million prize pool and a partnership with Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, who will serve as a global ambassador. The event also secured a three-year agreement with the South Korean publisher Smilegate to feature Crossfire. These titles join a diverse lineup of previously confirmed games, including major industry staples such as Dota 2, Counter-Strike 2, Rocket League, and various Call of Duty entries.

Managed by the Esports World Cup Foundation and operated by the ESL FACEIT Group, the tournament is funded by a grant from the Saudi Arabian government’s Public Investment Fund. The event remains a significant fixture in the global esports calendar, though it continues to face scrutiny from international human rights organizations regarding the broader context of Saudi government-backed sports and entertainment initiatives. Despite the extensive list of confirmed games, industry observers note the current absence of Riot Games’ primary titles, such as League of Legends and Valorant, from the official 2025 lineup.