The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has confirmed an expanded programme for the New Global Sport Conference 2025 (NGSC), adding new speakers, content formats and event design updates ahead of its return to Riyadh on 23–24 August.
Among the newly announced speakers are Hideo Kojima, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in gaming, and Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot, known for leading franchises such as Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry. Other confirmed participants include Twitch CEO Dan Clancy, World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen, former Liverpool FC CEO Peter Moore, and senior executives from FIFA, Activision, Sony, SEGA, and the Esports World Cup Foundation itself.
The conference will also introduce new formats aimed at fostering dialogue and strategic insight. “The Foundry” will host masterclasses, workshops and curated roundtables, with some sessions open to registered guests while others will remain invitation-only. An Investor Track within The Foundry is designed to connect investors with ventures in gaming, esports and sport through closed-door sessions.
In addition, a new NGSC Studio stage will feature live podcasts, interviews and original content, while an expanded Media Village will serve as the hub for press activity and real-time event coverage.
In a press release, Hans Jagnow, Director of Special Projects at the EWCF, said: “Over two years, NGSC 2025 has evolved into the world’s largest forum for leaders in gaming, esports and sport. This year, we expanded stages and content to bring together a growing audience of visionaries who see NGSC as the ultimate platform to define the next game. We look forward to the ideas, commitments and connections forged at the booked-out event that will drive the growth and innovation of our industry and shape what’s next.”
The conference, held at the Four Seasons Hotel during the closing weekend of the Esports World Cup 2025, expects to welcome over 1,500 delegates, including more than 500 CEOs, presidents and board members. Attendees will represent more than 25 major game publishers, over 50 esports clubs, and leaders from global sport, technology, venture capital and media. Organisers said a major update from the Esports World Cup Foundation will be announced during the conference.
