Esports Global has made a significant move in the esports landscape by acquiring National Student Esports (NSE). This acquisition signals a major step forward in strengthening the UK’s student esports scene. The newly formed alliance is expected to enhance opportunities and pathways for aspiring esports talent across the country.
Joining Forces for Greater Impact
Esports Global has entrusted the management of the UK university esports body to the British Esports Federation. This collaboration will see the continuation of NSE’s British University Esports Championship (BUEC) and its community programs, ensuring that students remain engaged and supported. NSE, established in 2017, has shown remarkable growth, having engaged over 17,800 players from 117 universities in the last academic year alone. British Esports, founded in 2016, brings a wealth of experience with initiatives such as the Student Champs and the National Esports Performance Campus in Sunderland.
Industry Leaders Comment on Deal
Dave Martin, CEO of Esports Global, emphasized that the partnership marks a crucial moment for UK student esports. He believes combining NSE’s extensive reach with British Esports’ infrastructure will create a unified path for student talent. Alex Coulson, Managing Director of NSE, echoed this sentiment, praising British Esports as an ideal partner to cultivate new opportunities. Nick Keller, CEO of Benchmark, noted the deal enhances the student esports ecosystem, highlighting NSE’s positive influence on student development.
Future Prospects and Investments
The acquisition aligns with the launch of the Esports Global Fund LP, which aims to invest $50 million in the esports and gaming sectors. This fund, backed by the Alshaya family, demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering growth within the industry. Esports Global’s leadership team, including influential figures like Chester King and Mark ‘Garvey’ Candella, is poised to guide this exciting new chapter. The timing of this acquisition coincides with the launch of the BUEC Winter season and the British Esports Student Champs for 2025/26, setting the stage for an exciting future in student esports.