Gareth Bale Launches Ellevens Esports Franchise
February 3, 2020
Real Madrid and Wales footballer Gareth Bale has today launched a brand new esports organisation called Ellevens Esports – in partnership with 38 Entertainment Group. 38 Entertainment is founded by investor and entrepreneur Jonathan Kark and former professional footballer Larry Cohen.
The Ellevens franchise initially launches with a FIFA team featuring three world-class professional players and will make its competitive tournament debut in the prestigious FIFA eClub World Cup this February 2020.
Gareth Bale is inviting gamers worldwide to take part in an open talent search which offers the chance to join Ellevens Esports on a professional esports contract. Ellevens is set to expand across a range of further esports platforms such as Fortnite, Rocket League and CS:GO. Gamers can register at ellevens-esports.com for further information.
Four-time UEFA Champions League winner Gareth Bale said: “On the pitch, my goal is always to win. With Ellevens Esports, that winning attitude is just as important. There are similarities between football and esports in that it takes real dedication and sacrifice to reach the top of your game.
“I am looking to recruit a team of world-class players for Ellevens across a variety of games. Unearthing new talent is an exciting part of the process and it’s been really exciting to be involved in selecting our line-up of players so far!”
Co-founder and entrepreneur Jonathan Kark continued: “We foresee further explosive growth in this international phenomenon and are actively seeking to deploy significant further capital into complimentary businesses within the Esports ecosystem.”
Co-founder and former professional footballer Larry Cohen said: “Esports is the world’s fastest growing sport and is becoming the new sports franchises of the future. In partnering with a world class footballer in Gareth , we are intending to create a dominant team that enjoys success and growing an engaged fan base of supporters.”
Ellevens Esports is co-owned by Gareth Bale and 38 Entertainment Group. Gareth Bale joins a list of stellar sporting names including Michael Jordan and Odell Beckham Jr, who have recently invested into the world of competitive Esports gaming. The industry has seen significant growth in recent years, with worldwide industry revenues reaching $1Billion in 2019.
Prize funds for esports tournaments have also grown, with the Fortnite World Cup 2019 solo prize winning 16-year-old, Kyle [Bugha] Giersdorf, taking home $3,025,900, even exceeding the prize money won by Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon $2,983,748 and Tiger Woods for his Masters win $2,070,000.