AEG, the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company and ESL, the world’s largest esports company, jointly announced a strategic long-term global partnership, that will align each company’s assets to further broaden the reach of esports around the world.
The partnership will enable ESL to utilize AEG’s global network of more than 120 clubs, theaters, arenas and stadiums for qualifying events, tournaments, and world championships, including the Barclays Center, The O2 Arena, and Oakland’s Oracle Arena. The deal also leverages AEG’s leadership in live event production, ticketing, marketing and sponsorship to further promote and expand competitive esports worldwide. Additionally, the two companies are looking to develop new esports events and expand the ESL’s presence in the Asia Pacific region.
“Esports has reached mainstream status. Our tournaments are viewed by as many, if not more spectators as traditional sports, so it is a natural progression that industry events increasingly become held at world class venues,” said Steven Roberts, Executive Chairman at ESL. “Our partnership with AEG enables us to further improve the spectator experience and create additional, global events for audiences and partners.”
“This will be a powerful relationship. Both organizations are committed to creating the best live events for fans around the world and together we will create new events that will unite the community and celebrate players, teams and leagues. As esports continues to transform the global sports landscape, our alliance will enable ESL to expand their geographic reach, optimize their operations and enhance the esports fan experience, while eliminating much of the risks associated with producing live sporting events,” said Bob Newman, President of AEG Facilities.
AEG will be showcasing their latest initiatives at Coliseum Summit AMERICAS, February 22-23, 2017 at Las Vegas, Nevada.
While ESL will offer insights on the future of esports at Coliseum Summit EUROPE, March 29-30, 2017 at Budapest, Hungary.
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