eSports Roundup 21/05

Here’s what’s been happening in the world of eSports over the last few weeks.

ESI Birmingham 2018

ESI Birmingham is set to take place on Thursday 24 May, only one day before the quarter-finals of ESL One Birmingham, and it’s shaping up to be an event that you won’t want to miss.

Running at the Arena Birmingham and in partnership with ESL UK, Intel, NEC Group and PwC, this exclusive conference delves into the eSports industry and the opportunities that are available because of it.

A variety of key figures in the industry will be in attendance to explain why this is the year to get into eSports. A ticket gives you access to the minds of these industry leaders and the UK’s first Major ESL One Birmingham, including a backstage tour.

CSGO – ESEA MDL Global Challenge

The ESEA MDL Global Challenge took place in Leicester and Order were the Aussie team on the hook to represent. They had a rough run in the groups, losing early to BIG, the German team that would eventually win the entire event. They managed to take out Swole Patrol from the US, but they finally lost against Russian squad Spirit.

US Supreme Court Strikes Law Prohibiting Gambling on Sports Events

The Supreme Court of the United States has struck down a law prohibiting gambling on sports events; a ruling that brings an end to a six-year legal battle over the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992.

ESPN reported that the ruling opens the door to legal sports betting in any state that wishes to offer it. Though the ruling doesn’t mention eSports specifically, it is likely to have major implications for the activity due to its increasing commingling with conventional sports.

eSports company Gfinity takes on former UFC and Manchester City boss

eSports giant Gfinity is gearing up to enter additional global markets with the appointment of a new executive chairman. The firm’s non-executive director, Garry Cook, will spearhead the development and delivery of international growth in his new role.

Garry was chief global brand officer of mixed martial arts organisation The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) prior to his work with London-based Gfinity. Before that, he served as the CEO of Manchester City Football Club from 2008 to 2012.

Gfinity has said his expertise in leading global businesses in the sports, media and entertainment sectors will help it build a recognised brand and capitalise on growth already achieved in the UK – one of the world’s fastest growing entertainment markets.

Following Garry’s appointment, Tony Collyer will step down from the Gfinity board after serving for four years, including three and a half as chairman.

“I would like to thank Tony for leading the board in developing Gfinity to its current leading position within the eSports industry,” said Garry.

“The company is well positioned for the next chapter of growth, both in the UK and internationally, and I am looking forward to establishing Gfinity as one of the world’s major sports media brands.”