With the ongoing Intel Arabian Cup (IAC), organized by Riot Games, showcasing the best talent so far, Intel and Lenovo have pledged to continue supporting the development of the gaming landscape in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
The inaugural IAC, which is in partnership between Riot Games, Intel and Lenovo, will enter the Final Stage from December 11 with eight teams representing their countries in their quest to become regional champions. The competition is based on Riot Games’ popular gaming title ‘League of Legends’.
Since its launch in May, IAC has provided a platform for professional and amateur gamers to connect virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic and showcase their skills and competitive spirit. With matches streamed online, attracting over 5.5 million total views, the competition has also allowed gamers to be recognized for their talent.
The tournament is part of Riot Games’ ongoing commitment to promoting gaming in the region by attracting new players, increasing fan engagement as well as nurturing local talent.
During a virtual press conference attended by key officials from Intel and Lenovo, Karim Hachani, Head of Publishing MENA – Riot Games, emphasized how the staging of IAC is another step forward in their mission to deliver fun gaming experiences.
Maurits Tichelman, Vice President, Sales and Marketing Group and General Manager, EMEA Territory – Intel, Ali Riza Kucuk, Regional Consumer Director, Middle East, Turkey, and Africa – Intel and Shashank Sharma, Executive Director & General Manager, META – Lenovo, highlighted the importance of how this event aligns with their vision to shape the future of gaming in the MENA region.
As leading technology organizations, Intel and Lenovo have been playing vital roles in growing the gaming industry. Intel has partnered with leading esports leagues, brands and publishers for nearly two decades and created innovative technology solutions to enhance the gaming experience, while Lenovo has built powerful gaming equipment and been part of several initiatives inspiring females to participate in gaming.
During the Final Stage of IAC, the eight teams that will be in action are Fox Gaming, EGZ Esports, Divine Vendetta, Anubis Gaming, Overmind, Galaxy Racer Esports, Summon Aery and Titans Gaming Center.
The teams qualified after overcoming two stern stages. The first stage, which attracted more than 5,000 players from over 1,000 teams participating, saw the 13 teams, winners of their respective national competitions, advance to the second stage.
Fans across the MENA region can follow the action live with matches taking place on the 11th, 12th, 18th and 19th of December.
