I Predict A Riot: Kaizer Chiefs to run esports stage at RUSH esports event

Kaizer Chiefs, the South African football club, has announced its participation at the RUSH Esports event which takes place from July 21-23 at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg.

The RUSH event is an esports event which brings together a number of different tournaments, platforms and game titles under one roof giving visitors the opportunity to experience competitive gaming first hand. There is a number of tournaments being run, with prizes such as overseas trips to be awarded to the winners. On first impressions, it sounds like a small version of DreamHack. 

Kaizer Chiefs will be following in the footsteps of many a football club in opening up to esports through FIFA. Gamers will have a chance to compete on the Kaizer Chiefs esports stage where they will compete in a FIFA 17 challenge as they hope to be crowned champion. 

RUSH will also provide fans with the opportunity to watch leading South African players compete on big screens complete with casting and analysis. 

“Kaizer Chiefs is a football club but our aim has always been to grow the business beyond just the football field by introducing and building the brand within new markets,” said Chiefs marketing manager Jessica Motaung in a release on kickoff. “The growth of esports has been phenomenal over the last few years and we always believe in being at the forefront of what is happening in the world.”

“The event is the perfect conduit for Kaizer Chiefs as trendsetters,” added Motaung. “We plan to touch and interact with young and old who are ardent gamers and those who’d like to join this revolution that’s fast taking the world by storm.”

Esports Insider says: Watching the people get lairy, it’s not very pretty I tell thee… so when are the Kaiser Chiefs entering esports? Song lyric quoting aside, it’s another boost to the growing South African scene with one of the most recognised football clubs getting involved. Yes it’s only FIFA, but the intent is there.