11th February 2022 – Manchester City has today announced the launch of the Man City eCup presented by Expo 2020 Dubai, an esports tournament for football fans and gamers in the United Arab Emirates.
The qualifying rounds will take place over 19th and 20th February with the top two players securing their spot at the live final event at Festival Garden, Expo 2020 Dubai on Sunday 27th February, as well as a share of the $2,500 total prize pool.
The live event will include the FIFA tournament Finals, in addition to a showcase 2v2 match including Manchester City’s FIFA pros Ryan Pessoa and Shaun ‘Shellzz’ Springette and a Q & A session with the players.
The tournament is an extension of the partnership that Expo 2020 Dubai has with Manchester City and the club’s Esports operations and will also be supported by Club partner, Etisalat. Both brands feature on the 2021/22 Official Esports Shirt and have collaborated on a number of content and fan activations throughout the season.
The tournament will be livestreamed on Manchester City’s Twitch.
Manchester City’s professional FIFA player, Ryan Pessoa said, “It’s fantastic to hear that Manchester City and Expo 2020 Dubai are working together to bring the Man City eCup to fans and gamers in the UAE.
“There is new talent emerging within the esports space across the world and I’m looking forward to watching them compete in this tournament and be part of the Finals event at Expo 2020 Dubai later this month.”
Kevin Brown, Vice President, Events and Entertainment, Expo 2020 Dubai, added: “Expo 2020 Dubai is delighted to collaborate with Manchester City on this exciting activation within the esports space. As the platform of choice for the launch of the Man City eCup, we are looking forward to providing football fans and gamers with a unique experience and to continue engaging our visitors with innovative experiences that are meaningful, memorable and surprising.”