According to Mikhail Klimentov's report on ReaderGrev, VALORANT is among the titles expected to be included in the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. An internal document reportedly includes VALORANT, League of Legends, and Teamfight Tactics as part of the lineup. Riot Games confirmed talks about VALORANT’s inclusion but clarified that the Game Changers circuit, their initiative for promoting diversity and inclusion, is not planned for the event.
Game Changers has been a significant part of VALORANT’s competitive ecosystem, offering a platform for women and marginalized genders to compete at a high level. Its absence from the EWC raises questions about the event's commitment to inclusivity. Saudi Arabia has faced criticism for its human rights record, including limited LGBTQ+ rights and restricted freedoms for women, which may have influenced Riot’s decision to exclude Game Changers from the lineup.
The EWC, funded by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, aims to cement the country’s position as a global esports hub. While its high-profile tournaments and record-breaking prize pools draw significant attention, critics label these efforts as "sportswashing," attempting to overshadow ethical concerns.
Saudi Arabia has made aggressive moves to dominate the esports industry by hosting high-profile tournaments with massive prize pools. The 2024 edition of the EWC featured 23 competitions across 22 games, solidifying the event's reputation as a major esports spectacle.
Adding VALORANT to the EWC would enhance the event’s prestige and global appeal. However, the lack of representation for Game Changers could hinder progress toward a more inclusive esports landscape.
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