BLAST, the world tournaments organizer, has announced a partnership with Saudi Arabia to build NEOM: the “eSport city”
NEOM Saudi Arabia, will be designed as a futuristic city, with intelligent technologies and will aim to attract innovators from all over the world.
The project is expected to complete its first segment by 2025.
According to the agreements, BLAST will provide strategic consultancy and will deal with the latest esports news through the eSport media .
In addition, in a tweet, the Danish company announced that there will also be a NEOM-themed map for Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, as well as educational work placements in future BLAST events.
COMMENTS
Jan Paterson, Managing Director of NEOM Sport, commented in a release:
“NEOM aims to become a global hub for sport that unites communities, enables active, balanced lifestyles and accelerates innovation.
Esports is growing at a rapid pace and NEOM is perfectly positioned to become the regional esports hub.
We are excited about the experience and benefits NEOM can bring to the industry. We will have an advanced technological base and venues designed specifically for esports.
In addition, we aim to inspire the development of young Saudi and international talent through a fully immersive esports academy.”
BLAST CEO Robbie Douek categorised the partnership as “a record deal” for the company.
Douek commented: “Esports is at the centre of NEOM’s exciting plans for Sport; we’re delighted to be able to assist them in shaping this long-term goal.
This is a record deal for BLAST and testament to our recent growth and standing in the industry right now.
We have a strong track record when it comes to producing global events that encompass a leading broadcast product and inspire lovers of esports.
We hope to leverage this knowledge and expertise to help build a first-in-class partnership that will allow NEOM to create a thriving esports ecosystem.”
BLAST organized a flagship event in the Middle East in December, hosting its final BLAST Pro series finale on the border with Bahrain.
NEOM is supported by $ 500 billion in funding from Saudi Arabia and aims to attract around 1 million people who will live and work in the city.