Capcom has published a statement regarding its recent change to a pay-per-view model for its Street Fighter 6 esports scene.
The change was originally announced on September 28th for Capcom Cup 12 and Street Fighter League: World Championship 2025, two of its biggest competitive events.
The shift to pay-per-view puts the two finals behind a digital paywall, which was free to watch in past years, a change that has sparked backlash from FGC fans.
Capcom Responds to Fan Backlash
In its statement, Capcom shared that the decision was made to grow the tournaments into ‘internationally competitive events’ and to support teams, partners, and ‘related business areas’.
Capcom stated: “The decision to introduce Pay-Per-View live streaming for Capcom Cup 12 and Street Fighter League: World Championship 2025 stems from our commitment to promoting our esports business in a sustainable manner over the medium to long term.”
The gaming publisher also added that it will strive to provide ‘clearer updates’ for esports events in the future through its social media channels, official website, and from PR representatives.
The statement has been met with criticism online by both fans and athletes within the esports scene.
In response to Capcom’s statement, European player Nathan ‘Mister Crimson‘ Massol said: “Most of our business model teams are based on visibility. By locking the finals behind a pay-per-view stream, you’re actually going against your players, the same players who invest thousands of hours making Street Fighter more popular.”
The pricing details for the pay-per-view tickets were originally going to be announced in late October; however, it has now been delayed until ‘preparations are complete.’ Sales for the Street Fighter League: Pro Japan Playoffs and Grand Finals tickets will begin on November 12th, 2025.
Free replays of the finals will be released on March 21st for Capcom Cup 12, and March 22nd, for the World Championship, a week after the events conclude.
Capcom Cup 12 and Street Fighter League
Capcom Cup 12 is the culmination of the 2025 Capcom Pro Tour, running from March 11th to 14th, 2026. The top 48 qualified players will compete across three phases to be crowned the Pro Tour champion, claiming the lion’s share of its $1.28m (~£960,000) prize pool.
The Street Fighter League: World Championship 2025 serves as the crowning event of the event’s eighth season. The top players from Japan, the US and Europe will compete for a share of its increased prize pool of $200,000 (~£150,000).
