The FIFAe Finals 25 concluded in a blaze of glory as France emerged victorious at the FIFAe World Cup featuring Rocket League. Held from December 10 to 19 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the event marked an unforgettable eight days of intense football esports competition and entertainment. The French team, comprising Zen, Vatira, and Juicy, showcased remarkable skill and cohesion, navigating from the group stages to the final with poise and precision.
This victory not only crowns France as the world’s best in Rocket League but also highlights the growing prominence of esports on the global stage. The FIFAe Finals 25, a pinnacle event in the esports calendar, brought together communities worldwide, uniting various football titles under one roof. With 250 matches played over eight days, a prize pool of USD 450,000, and millions of viewers tuning in online, the event set new standards for esports competitions.
Unprecedented Success and Global Engagement
The FIFAe Finals 25 was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of esports and its potential to unite fans across the globe. The purpose-built arena in Riyadh provided a unique atmosphere, enhancing the experience for both participants and spectators. The event’s success is underscored by record-breaking social media engagement, reflecting the growing interest in esports as a form of mainstream entertainment.
Mattias Grafström, FIFA Secretary General, emphasized the event’s significance, stating,
“This year’s FIFAe Finals truly united the world by connecting the next generation of fans with the sport we all love. By creating the biggest global stage for national team-based football esports, we are shaping a new era of entertainment – one that combines national pride, competitive excellence, and the universal passion for football and gaming.”
Highlights and Historic Achievements
The FIFAe Finals 25 concluded with three historic champions, each representing a different facet of the esports landscape:
- Thailand – Champions of the FIFAe World Cup featuring eFootball™ Mobile
- Poland – Champions of the FIFAe World Cup featuring eFootball™ Console
- France – Champions of the FIFAe World Cup featuring Rocket League
The Road to Riyadh saw participation from 94 nations and millions of players, showcasing the expansive reach and appeal of the FIFAe ecosystem. The culmination of the season at the SEF Arena in Riyadh was a testament to the dedication and passion of the esports community.
The Future of Esports and Global Impact
The success of the FIFAe Finals 25 underscores the potential of esports to transcend traditional sporting boundaries and engage a diverse global audience. As the event continues to grow, it sets a precedent for future competitions, encouraging more nations and players to participate in this rapidly evolving field.
Looking ahead, FIFA plans to build on this momentum, with Grafström inviting all stakeholders to join in 2026 for another exciting chapter.
“Congratulations to all world champions for their outstanding achievements in an unforgettable, spectacular atmosphere. As we continue to unite the entire football family, we encourage all our Member Associations, players, fans, and stakeholders to join us in 2026 for an exciting new chapter,”
he remarked.
As the esports industry continues to expand, events like the FIFAe Finals 25 highlight the potential for growth and innovation in this dynamic field. With its ability to bring together diverse communities and foster a spirit of competition and camaraderie, esports is poised to become an integral part of the global sporting landscape.