NEW DELHI: India’s top esports organization S8UL has made a roaring debut at the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 with a blockbuster Opening Ceremony Marathon Stream, setting the tone for what could be a historic campaign for Indian esports on the global stage.
Held in Riyadh, where the second edition of the world’s largest esports tournament is currently underway, the opening ceremony was not just a celebration—it was a statement. A statement of ambition, arrival, and the unwavering belief that India belongs at the centre of global competitive gaming.
“It’s time for the @ewc_en OPENING CEREMONY – S8UL EDITION!” the organization posted on X.
With guest appearances, fan contests, creator interactions, and high-stakes giveaways, the stream drew massive attention across platforms like YouTube and X, fueled by trending hashtags like #iQOOS8UL, #S8ULFTW, and #GameShuru.
What is EWC? Mortal Breaks It Down for India
Indian esports legend Naman Mathur aka Mortal, one of S8UL’s co-founders, explained the tournament in simple terms during the stream:
“The Esports World Cup is the biggest esports tournament in the world—24 games, 40 club partners, and a $70 million prize pool. This is Season 2, again hosted in Riyadh, where Team Falcons won the inaugural edition.”
Mortal detailed the format, where club partners can compete in as many titles as they choose. Over 7 weeks, they collect points based on performance across games. The club with the highest cumulative points at the end is crowned the EWC Champion.
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“Of the $70 million, $44 million has already been distributed across qualifiers and game wins. But $27 million (₹231 crore) is still up for grabs. This is not just a tournament—it’s a revolution for young Indian esports athletes.”
The Vision That Carried S8UL to the World Stage
For S8UL CEO Animesh “8bit Thug” Agarwal, EWC is more than just another event—it’s a culmination of belief, persistence, and learning.
“When we found out in February 2025 that our application to EWC was accepted, it was a mix of excitement and nervousness,” Thug shared during the stream. “We knew how big this was, but didn’t know how to navigate it.”
Since then, S8UL has expanded its participation across nearly 15 competitive titles, establishing a global footprint.
“Our biggest win is simply getting into EWC. There is nothing bigger. We’ve grown beyond India—we’re now present in almost every major competitive title with an Indian circuit.”
However, the road hasn’t been without hurdles. Thug candidly acknowledged the MLVP (Mobile Legends) setback, which impacted their standing:
“It was a personal disappointment. We had three solid entries and a strong shot at the Club Championship leaderboard. But things didn’t go our way. Now, we’re left with just one shot at redemption through Tekken.”
Despite setbacks, Thug remains optimistic and focused on growth.
“We’re even adding another new title soon, taking us to 16 games. We’ve also faced leadership and operations challenges, being a small team with fast expansion. But the growth is overwhelming in the best way.”
8Bit Goldy: ‘This Is India’s Stamp on the Global Gaming Map’
S8UL’s co-owner Lokesh “8bit Goldy” Jain echoed the emotion and pride that has come with the global spotlight:
“Five years ago, we could’ve never imagined we’d play at the Esports World Cup. This moment is not just recognition—it’s a stamp of belief. India is now part of the global esports conversation, and S8UL is leading the charge.”
Reflecting on 2025 so far, Goldy said:
“Whether it was through tough lessons or small victories, we’ve grown every step of the way. It’s been a beautiful year.”
More Than Just a Team — A Movement
With its roots in India’s grassroots esports scene, S8UL is now a global brand. Creators, players, and fans across the world tune in to its streams, follow its content, and celebrate its every move.
From BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India) to Valorant, from Free Fire to Tekken, S8UL has built not just a team, but a thriving ecosystem. Their participation in EWC 2025 solidifies what many have long believed: Indian esports is ready for the world.
The Marathon Opening Stream wasn’t just entertainment—it was a national moment. And with $27 million still on the line, the tournament is far from over.
