Gfinity signs HP as official partner of first esports tournament
Updated : 14:54
Esports operator Gfinity announced OMEN by HP as its first official partner of the inaugural esports tournament, the Gfinity Elite Series, on Thursday.
The AIM-traded firm said as the official hardware partner, OMEN would be integrated throughout the 10-week professional season which was set to commence in June 2017, together with the supporting Gfinity Challenger competition.
Gfinity’s announcement followed the agreement signed in August 2016 with HP Inc for an OMEN sponsored tournament, which took place at EGX - the UK's largest gaming exhibition - in September 2016.
Through the ongoing relationship, Gfinity’s board said HP would look to engage with the thriving esports community, starting with the Challenger Series, where many gamers would reportedly take their first steps in competitive gaming.
The Challenger Series was designed to encourage amateur gamers of any level to register and compete to earn ranking points to qualify for the Gfinity Elite Draft, meaning they could have the chance to earn a place in the Elite Series as part of eight professional esports teams.
It said the series was expected to attract an active audience of esports enthusiasts and competitive gamers to generate other sponsorship and broadcasting rights for the company, and provide a unique set of sponsorship, media and franchise opportunities for additional potential partners.
“We are incredibly proud to announce OMEN by HP as our first commercial partner for the Elite Series and look forward to working with them to build the most dynamic and entertaining esports event in the UK,” said Gfinity CEO Neville Upton.
“OMEN by HP share our passion for investment in grassroots talent and their expertise and creativity will allow us to deliver the most exciting esports experience, helping the UK scene fulfill its undoubted potential.”
Yvonne Hobden, consumer marketing lead at HP Inc, explained that the unique format of the Challenger and Elite Series was an opportunity for OMEN by HP to play its part in facilitating the growth of esports in the UK, by supporting new talent and backing the pro circuit.
“Combining powerful hardware and cutting-edge design, our industry leading gaming products are ready for the challenge and we look forward to showcasing them to Gfinity's thriving community.”