The Esports World Cup Foundation expands its presence in India with new regional partnerships and direct invites for Battlegrounds Mobile India teams, aiming to unify global esports communities.
The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) is intensifying its involvement in the Indian esports ecosystem, marking a significant milestone in its mission to bring together global esports fans under a single competitive platform. This expansion includes a new regional partnership with an undisclosed streaming service provider and a direct invitation extended to a Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) team to compete at the upcoming Esports World Cup.
India represents a pivotal market in the EWCF’s global vision, with its vast population of mobile-first gamers fueling rapid growth in competitive esports. Mike McCabe, Chief Operating Officer of the EWCF, emphasized India’s importance: “India is central to that vision. With hundreds of millions of mobile-first players, it’s home to an ecosystem evolving at an incredible pace. Through expanded partnerships and competitive pathways, we’re shaping the future of Indian esports.”
Further strengthening its ties to the Indian market, the EWCF had previously included S8UL Esports, one of India’s leading esports organisations, in its expanded partner programme for the 2025 Esports World Cup. This collaboration reinforces the Foundation’s commitment to supporting regional esports talent and infrastructure.
A key aspect of the Foundation’s India push is its incorporation of Battlegrounds Mobile India’s competitive scene. The winners of the Battlegrounds Mobile India Pro Series (BMPS) will receive a coveted spot at the Esports World Cup, providing a valuable international stage for one of India’s top BGMI teams. While specific details remain unconfirmed, this invitation likely aligns with the EWC’s PUBG Mobile competition, which traditionally features a special invite slot for elite teams.
The EWCF’s growth in India fits within a broader global expansion strategy. Since launching the Esports World Cup, the organisation has actively sought to build bridges across esports markets. In February, it secured a landmark partnership with Tencent, aimed at enhancing engagement between Chinese esports communities and the wider world. Similarly, collaborations with Riot Games have integrated titles such as League of Legends, VALORANT, and Teamfight Tactics into the multi-title tournament format.
Backing the Esports World Cup Foundation is the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, a government-linked initiative supporting major esports events. Despite the Foundation’s rapid growth and high-profile partnerships, it continues to face criticism over allegations of ‘esportswashing’, using esports to improve the Kingdom’s international image despite ongoing human rights concerns.
Nevertheless, the Foundation’s expanded activities in India demonstrate a clear focus on cultivating new markets and investing in regions poised to shape the future of competitive gaming. By forging local partnerships, offering direct competitive pathways for Indian teams, and integrating mobile esports into its flagship event, the EWCF aims to unify a diverse and rapidly growing global esports audience.
As the Esports World Cup 2025 approaches, India’s involvement will be a major storyline to watch, underscoring the country’s rising prominence on the international esports stage and the Foundation’s dedication to inclusive, worldwide competition.
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