Aravindh, Nihal join S8UL for Esports World Cup, Riyadh
The Esports World Cup 2025 (EWC) will see Prague Masters Champion GM Aravindh Chithambaram and former Asian Blitz Champion Nihal Sarin turn out for S8UL, a global name in Esports and gaming content, headquartered in Mumbai, India. The lucrative EWC offers $1.5 million prize money for chess out of total prize pool of $70 million. Just last week we had GMs Daniil Dubov, Vladislav Artemiev (Team Spirit) & Anish Giri (Team Secret) signing up for the EWC 2025.
S8UL, a global name in esports and gaming content from India will take part in five titles in the cash rich bonanza Esports World Cup 2025 (EWC) at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 7th July to 24th August, 2025. EWC originated in Riyadh last year and the second edition this year is richer by a mile. The ancient & cerebral game of Chess getting introduced in this edition will run from 31st July, 2025.
Grandmasters Aravindh and Nihal will join the list of several illustrious GMs including World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen, who’ve all been roped in so far. Both Aravindh and Nihal are lethal speed merchants and will be a great value addition to Team S8UL.

“This is a defining moment for Indian esports. Our entry into titles like EAFC, Warzone, Apex, Tekken and Chess is not just participation — it’s a statement. S8UL is going global. We’re stepping into arenas that many never imagined an Indian org could enter, and we’re doing it with heart, skill and intent. We’re not just here to play — we’re here to make a mark. And this is just the first stop in that journey” said Animesh Agarwal, Co-founder and CEO, S8UL.
Prior to GMs Aravindh & Nihal 17 Grandmasters have jumped the bandwagon and more might join the fray. Entries for chess is restricted to 16 and the Champions Chess Tour second leg qualifier for EWC scheduled from May 18-23, 2025 is sure to witness a bloodbath.
Pictures Courtesy: https://x.com/SoulesportsIND
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