Fighting game community divided after Saudi-backed Qiddiya acquires Evo

Evolution Championship Series, or Evo for short, has long been one of the most prestigious tournaments in the fighting game community. Since February, Qiddiya City — the development project tied to Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman — announced its acquisition of Evo, following Saudi involvement in 2024 as a global partner and partial owner.

The move marks a shift from the event's grassroots origins to a corporate asset traded among esports organizations and investors. The acquisition drew immediate outcry across the community. Saudi investment in games is viewed by critics as part of a broader effort to paper over human rights abuses and to use sporting events to burnish the royal family's image.

Qiddiya Investment Company chief strategy officer Muhannad Aldawood said, "Evo is a global gaming institution, built on community, competition, and creativity," and pledged to "respect its heritage and strengthen its role within the global Fighting Game Community." Top players have responded in different ways.

Saudi Arabia, Qiddiya City

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