Esports World Cup 2025 Full Qualification System Revealed

Greetings to all gaming industry fans—once again, esports brings us exciting news. The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has officially launched its global “Path to EWC” campaign, which outlines the qualification system for participating in one of the biggest and most global esports tournaments.

The campaign features over 200 tournaments across the world. The “Path to EWC” gives players of all skill levels a chance to join qualifiers and compete in the Esports World Cup, which will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 7 to August 24.

Additionally, the “Path to EWC” will include a large-scale marketing initiative with original content to promote events and leagues globally and engage fans. According to the announcement, the campaign will feature player interviews and behind-the-scenes access, helping bring EWC games to a wider audience ahead of the offline tournament this summer.

Depending on the game, there will be various qualification tournaments leading to the main event. Official publisher circuits will serve as the primary route for games like League of Legends, VALORANT, Overwatch 2, and Apex Legends. Dota 2 fans also have something to look forward to, as online qualifiers will be available for this discipline.

Mobile games will include regional leagues, with winners securing a place in the Esports World Cup. For fighting games such as Street Fighter 6, TEKKEN 8, and unexpectedly Fatal Fury, main event participants will be determined through shared tournaments like EVO Japan, Combo Breaker, and CEO. Additionally, a Last Chance Qualifier series will be held ahead of the main event, offering players one final opportunity to gain entry.

To give you an idea of the event’s scale, the 2025 Esports World Cup will feature a total of 25 tournaments across 24 games, including four new titles: Chess, Crossfire, FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves, and VALORANT.

Prize Pool

There’s progress here as well—compared to 2024, the prize pool will be increased to $70 million, $10 million more than the previous year. Out of the $70 million, $27 million will be distributed through the EWC Club Championship, giving esports teams and organizations extra motivation throughout the competitive season in addition to the partnership program.