Hong Kong set to host its biggest esports event with the BLAST Premier Rivals 2025 to receive first-ever “M” Mark for an esports tournament
BLAST, in collaboration with the Esports Association of Hong Kong, China and supported by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, has announced plans for the BLAST Premier Rivals to take place in Hong Kong from 12–16 November 2025 at AsiaWorld-Arena.
The announcement marks Hong Kong’s largest esports event to date and represents a historic milestone as the first esports event to receive the prestigious “M” Mark designation by the Major Sports Events Committee under the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). The “M” Mark is awarded only to major sporting events that significantly enhance Hong Kong’s international image as a premier destination for sports and entertainment.
Part of the revamped BLAST Premier 2025 global circuit, the Counter-Strike 2 tournament will see the biggest and best eight teams from around the world, including four of the best teams from the Valve Regional Standings and four teams from Europe, North America, South America and Asia, ensuring global representation.
A total of $1,000,000 USD in prize pool and participation fees will be on the line for the competing teams, with the event to be broadcast in 30+ languages across 100+ territories and millions of viewers worldwide, the tournament cements Hong Kong’s status as a key global player in the competitive gaming industry.
James Woollard, Director of Market Development at BLAST, said:
“We are incredibly proud to bring the BLAST Premier Rivals to Hong Kong and make history in the process, as the first esports event to receive ‘M’ Mark recognition. This event will combine world-class competition, state-of-the-art production and a uniquely local cultural experience to create an unforgettable moment for fans in Hong Kong, Asia and around the globe. We are excited to be working with brilliant and trusted local partners such as the Esports Association of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Tourism Board, which will allow us to put this vibrant city at the centre of the global esports and gaming world in November.”
Chinese and Asian Counter-Strike continues to gain global momentum, with teams like Tyloo and Lynn Vision, globally ranked 25th and 30th respectively, impressing during the ongoing BLAST.tv Major 2025 taking place this month in Austin, Texas. Both teams are fielding all-Chinese rosters and showcasing the depth, skill and potential of the region on one of the world’s biggest stages. Both teams' strong performances reflect the growing infrastructure and talent pool emerging across Asia. The BLAST Premier Hong Kong Rivals will further help drive this growth, by providing a platform to celebrate regional excellence, inspire new talent and accelerate the growth of Counter-Strike and esports throughout Honk Kong, Greater China, Asia and beyond.
Mr George Tsoi, Commissioner for Sports, Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Government of the HKSAR, said:
"It is an honor to witness Hong Kong hosting its first international esports tournament, reinforcing our city's status as a global sports hub. Esports is a thriving industry that demands teamwork, strategy, and dedication. We are committed to supporting its growth as both a competitive sport and a driver of innovation. BLAST Premier Hong Kong Rivals 2025 marks a milestone in our journey, and we look forward to welcoming players and fans to this historic event."
Ryan Chow, Chairman and President, Esports Association of Hong Kong, China said:
“After the Hong Kong Esports Music Festival 2019, there have been no international-level esports competitions held in Hong Kong. We hope that through this grand event, we can enhance Hong Kong’s competitiveness in the international market, create a vibrant and innovative esports atmosphere, and drive the development of the local esports industry. This will attract more international tournaments and companies to establish a presence in Hong Kong, promote the prosperity of related tourism industries, and elevate Hong Kong’s status in the global esports scene.”
“At the same time, this year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Esports Association of Hong Kong, China. Together with founding members and industry peers, I have witnessed the federation’s establishment, growth, and development. From being an esports enthusiast to now serving as the federation’s chairman, I feel both excited and touched. It has been a journey of growth alongside the federation and the industry. The path has not been easy, but these challenges have made us more resilient and strong, enabling us to embrace a new milestone in Hong Kong’s esports industry through our collaboration with top international esports brand BLAST.”
The BLAST Premier Hong Kong Rivals is proud of being an “M” Mark event that helps enhance the image of Hong Kong as Asia’s sports event capital. The “M” Mark awarded by the Major Sports Events Committee, symbolising intense, spectacular and signature event in the territory sports calendar.
The launch of BLAST Premier Rivals Hong Kong 2025 was celebrated at a media and stakeholder event held at Cyberport, one of Hong Kong’s leading tech and innovation hubs. The event featured remarks from notable officials, including:
- Mr George Tsoi, Commissioner for Sports, Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Government of the HKSAR
- Mr. Wilfred NG GBS, MH, JP, Chairman, Major Sports Events Committee, the Government of the HKSAR
- Mr. Hon Duncan Chiu,Member, Functional Constituency - Technology and Innovation, Legislative Council, HKSAR
- Ms. Marilyn Tham General Manager, Mega Events Development & Advancement, Hong Kong Tourism Board
- Mr. Sebastian Lau Executive Board Member of Asian Electronic Sports Federation, Vice Chairman of Esports Association of Hong Kong China, General Secretary of World Digital Sports Alliance
- Mr. Leo Matlock Chief Business Officer for BLAST
- Mr. Ryan Chow Chairman and President, Esports Association of Hong Kong, China
Event details:
- Dates: 12–16 November 2025
- Location: AsiaWorld-Arena, Hong Kong
- Teams: 8 top global CS2 teams (4 from Valve Regional Standings + 4 regional wildcards)
- Prize Pool & Participation Fees: $1,000,000 USD
- Tickets: Tickets for the event are expected to go on sale in the coming weeks, sign up to BLAST.tv for access to pre-sale tickets and all the latest updates.
