‘MENA region, particularly Saudi Arabia, is rapidly becoming a global hub for gaming and esports,’ says Niko Partners CEO RIYADH: The New Global Sport Conference 2024, themed “The Future of Fandom,” is set to host more than 60 global speakers and over 750 global delegates from industries such as esports, technology, sports, entertainment and business on Aug. 24-25 in Riyadh. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport Ahead of the event, key industry figures shared their thoughts on the topics that will be discussed at the Four Seasons Hotel. Joe Marsh, CEO of T1 Entertainment & Sports, highlighted the importance of the conference — which takes place at the end of the Esports World Cup — in shaping the future of esports. “Attending the New Global Sport Conference is an opportunity to shape the future of esports in the here and now. As a gamer my entire life, this year’s theme of ‘The Future of Fandom’ strongly resonates,” he said. “What does it mean to be an esports fan in the modern era? And how do we as an industry ensure that our teams and players are given the optimum chance to play in the tournaments and matches that the gaming world so strongly desires? “The New Global Sport Conference in Riyadh provides a convergence of innovation, passion, collaboration and excellence — a place where ideas are exchanged, and new paradigms are set.” Lisa Cosmas Hanson, CEO, Niko Partners, highlighted the position of Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region within the gaming and esports industry. “The MENA region, particularly Saudi Arabia, is rapidly becoming a global hub for gaming and esports,” she said. “It is one of the fastest-growing video games markets that Niko Partners tracks, driven by a young, tech-savvy population, strong government support and robust investment in infrastructure. “We are seeing more companies recognize the importance of MENA and implement a localized strategy to succeed in the region. I’m excited to attend the New Global Sport Conference to explore key themes such as navigating growth in games and entertainment, and share our insights on the thriving MENA video games market.” Meanwhile, Maya Rogers, CEO of The Tetris Company, expressed her enthusiasm at returning to the conference after attending its previous iteration, the Next World Forum. “It’s an honor to participate at the New Global Sport Conference in Riyadh this year, with over 60 speakers and industry leaders and more than 750 delegates from across the globe,” she said. “At the end of last year’s conference, I was energized by the speakers, information sharing and networking, and I am thrilled to not only participate again this year as a panelist, but also to see firsthand the result of Saudi Arabia’s continued investments and commitment to bringing esports to a whole new level.”