Wales and Real Madrid winger Bale launches esports team

TIL Desk Sports/ Wales and Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale has launched a new esports organisation called Ellevens Esports, with a team from the franchise set to make their debut at the FIFA eClub World Cup in Milan this week. The venture is co-owned by Bale and 38 Entertainment Group, founded by investor Jonathan Kark and former footballer Larry Cohen.

Bale has also invited gamers from around the world to participate in a talent hunt where they will be given a chance to sign a professional contract with Ellevens Esports. “There are similarities between football and esports in that it takes real dedication and sacrifice to reach the top of your game,” Bale said. Apart from FIFA, Ellevens plans to expand to other esports multiplayer platforms such as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Fortnite and Rocket League.

Prize money in esports has grown in recent years and last year American teenager Kyle Giersdorf won over $3 million after taking the top prize in a Fortnite tournament – more than the prize money on offer at Wimbledon or the Masters. The FIFA eClub World Cup will offer a total prize pool of $100,000 and a chance to earn Global Series Rankings points that will help players qualify for the FIFA