The Emirates Esports Federation, in collaboration with ITW Global, a leading consultancy and management firm, has announced the inception of a franchised global esports league. Named the E-Gaming League (EGL), this new competition is set to commence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) starting April 2024.
Key Highlights of EGL
- Inaugural Format: The EGL will feature a draft format involving players from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America, coupled with a lucrative prize pool.
- Game Titles: The league will include popular esports titles such as Dota 2 and PUBG.
- Qualifier Rounds: Slated for February and March 2024, these rounds will determine the players eligible for the draft selection.
Pre-Event Activities
- Launch Timeline: Pre-event activities are planned to begin in the UAE from February 2024, although specific details are yet to be disclosed.
Franchise Model in Esports
- Global Perspective: The franchise model has seen varying levels of success in the esports industry. Notably, Skyesports launched India’s first franchised esports league in April 2023.
- North American Context: Teams like Evil Geniuses and Golden Guardians have exited the LCS, leaving eight teams competing in the league.
Asia’s Esports Market
- Rapid Growth: Asia is currently one of the fastest-growing markets in esports.
- Indian Players’ Participation: The inclusion of Indian players in this league provides a significant platform for showcasing the talent of esports athletes from the country.
- Expectations from EGL: Sheikh Sultan, the President of the Emirates Esports Federation, expressed excitement about the potential of the league. He envisions EGL as a transformative event contributing to the growth and trajectory of esports.
E-Gaming League: A New Global Esports Competition
The E-Gaming League represents a significant step in the evolution of esports, especially in regions like the Middle East and Asia. With its innovative draft format and international player base, EGL is poised to become a pivotal platform in the global esports landscape.