The Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 launched on July 11 in Riyadh with a sold-out ceremony at ANB Arena. Post Malone headlined, joined by a genre-melding performance called “Til My Fingers Bleed.” The event marked seven weeks of intense global gaming, entertainment and community celebration.
Opening Night: Music Meets Gear
The show blended K-pop, hip-hop, and rock.
- Live performance of “Til My Fingers Bleed”
- Post Malone’s solo debut of “Circles”
- High-energy set by Alesso and Tina Guo
The official Song of the Year for EWC 2025, “Til My Fingers Bleed,” got over two million streams in its first week. DINO (from SEVENTEEN), Duckwrth and Telle Smith of The Word Alive joined on stage. Visual production featured a 40-metre mountain set, an LED ceiling, and AR design, creating a dramatic backdrop for the gamers’ spotlight.
Adding to the multicultural energy, rising stars Vikina and Richaelio brought a burst of Latin rhythm and movement, their performance produced by the legendary Emilio Estefan Jr. The act celebrated a global sound, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultures and beats that gaming now brings together. “We’re turning up the volume and bringing that Miami rhythm to the world, just as this incredible mix of gaming cultures and passion is about to be felt across the country and around the globe,” said Vikina, channelling the spirit of unity and joy.
To keep the momentum going, genre-blending hitmakers French Montana and Swae Lee kept the vibes high with a high-octane rap set, seamlessly weaving melody and momentum. Their energy moved the crowd even before the matches began, demonstrating how music and gaming together can electrify a live audience. “This isn’t just a show, it’s a whole vibe. Gaming, music, culture—we’re bringing it all, making sure the world feels the heat,” Lee said.
Uniting Fans: Special Opening Night Highlights
The creative team behind the ceremony delivered an opening act designed to resonate with viewers from every corner of the globe. A fast-paced countdown video set the scene, hyping up the packed arena and connecting fans representing 32 top-tier clubs.
Next came a surge of Latin rhythm and movement as up-and-coming stars Vikina and Richaelio ignited the stage, backed by the signature production style of Emilio Estefan Jr.—a name synonymous with genre-crossing hits and Miami flair. Their performance captured the world’s patchwork of cultures, inviting everyone to take part in a global music celebration that rides on the heartbeat of football.
- Live Latin-infused performance blending dance and vocals
- Multicultural showcase starring artists with global crossover hits
Adding to the energy, chart-toppers like French Montana and Swae Lee dialled up the excitement even further, dropping a high-octane set that fused rap with melodic hooks—perfect for a global audience eager for bold, genre-defying sounds.
The ceremony didn’t just focus on music. As drummers, dancers, and a full choir filled the stadium with kinetic energy, young footballers took centre field—each representing a participating club. In a stunning visual, they came together to form a glowing display, spelling out a lasting message of unity. This symbol will remain in the United States as a memento before heading to its new home in Zurich, celebrating the shared history of teams and their fans.
Every beat, light, and movement was carefully crafted to create unforgettable moments and set the pulse racing for what was to come: a worldwide contest fueled by passion, music, and the universal language of the beautiful game.
How Fans Join the Action
So, how can you take part in all the opening night hype and the seven-week spectacle that follows? Tickets are available online, and with buzz building fast, fans are snapping them up for a chance to witness the fusion of gaming and music firsthand. For those looking to amp up the experience, premium packages open up exclusive perks and access all areas—ideal if you want to make a night of it.
Can’t make it to Riyadh? Not a problem. Every match streams live and free on platforms like DAZN, letting gamers and music lovers around the globe tune in. Whether you’re in the arena or on your sofa, the EWC is designed so everyone joins the celebration as the worlds of esports, pop, and epic arenas collide.
Post Malone Delivers a Highlight
Known for his record-breaking tracks and awards, Post Malone opened with a silence-first staging. Backed only by lighting, he started with “Circles.” The raw focus on his vocals created a decisive in‑arena moment that set the tone. His simple entrance let the music speak, earning a strong connection with fans.
EDM Meets Classical: Alesso & Tina Guo
Alesso, a Grammy‑nominated DJ, brought dance energy with cello icon Tina Guo.
- Sync of electronic production with live cello
- Intense, adrenaline-charged “Ascension” track
Their collaboration combined electronic and string performance. The result: a textured, physical experience echoing the tension of esports. It felt like a score to high-stakes gaming moments unfolding across the tournament.
Diverse Celebrity Red Carpet
A wide spectrum of stars from different fields hit the red carpet:
- Tyler 1 (streamer)
- Osi Umenyiora (NFL legend)
- Magnus Carlsen (chess grandmaster)
- Karry Wang (actor)
- Arslan Ash (pro gamer)
Their presence underlines EWC’s aim to unite sports, entertainment and gaming worldwide, showing esports’ growing appeal across fan communities.
As the crowd pulsed with excitement, the red carpet became more than just a celebrity showcase—it was a celebration of the global gaming community. The evening kicked off with a vibrant display of cultures and backgrounds, as personalities from streaming, sports, gaming, and entertainment converged to honor the moment. Drummers, dancers, and fans created a rhythmic energy that echoed throughout the arena, embodying the spirit of unity and connection.
To cap off the festivities, young gaming talents representing each of the participating teams took to the stage, each bearing their team’s crest. Together, they formed a living symbol of the tournament’s core values: diversity, teamwork, and passion for competition. It was a lasting image—a reminder that, for one night, millions of fans and dozens of communities stood together at the intersection of gaming and global culture.
Creative Vision Behind the Spectacle
Ariel Horn (executive producer) and Viranda Tantula (creative director), working with Possible Productions, designed visuals that mirrored the intensity of the tournament.
- Mountain stage for rising stakes
- LED ceiling + dynamic lights for immersion
- AR transitions for broadcasting polish
It wasn’t just a show—it told a story. Players on stage, flickering light and AR pulses made each moment feel alive. The aim: emotional connection, not flash.
What’s Next: The Competition Begins
With the show done, the tournament begins. Top esports clubs clash daily across Boulevard City arenas. They compete for the Esports World Cup Club Championship, touted as the biggest prize pool in esports.
FAQs
What is the official Song of the Year for EWC 2025?
“Til My Fingers Bleed.” It hit over two million streams in its first week and was performed live by DINO (SEVENTEEN), Duckwrth and Telle Smith.
When does competitive play begin?
Tournament matches begin immediately after the Opening Ceremony. They run daily throughout the seven‑week event across multiple Riyadh venues.
Who performed besides Post Malone?
DINO, Duckwrth and Telle Smith on the official song, Alesso and Tina Guo with “Ascension”, Post Malone opened with “Circles”
