GeoGuessr withdraws from Esports World Cup following fan backlash

Geography-based guessing game GeoGuessr has withdrawn from the Esports World Cup following backlash from its community of players.

As a result, the game’s Last Chance Wildcard tournament will no longer feature as part of the Esports World Cup Festival line-up.

GeoGuessr only announced that it would join the multi-title esports event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 15th. However, fans of the title were quick to share their frustration surrounding its involvement.

On May 21st, 2025, creators of ‘all major world maps’ made the levels unplayable in protest. In addition, several members of its Discord server called on the title to cancel the event altogether.

Following the backlash, GeoGuessr published a social media post confirming its withdrawal along with providing insight behind its decision not to hold the Last Chance Wildcard event in Saudi Arabia.

“I’ve seen your reactions over the past few days regarding our decision to participate in the Esports World Cup in Riyadh. When we made that decision, it was made with positive intentions,” said Daniel Antell, Co-founder and CEO of GeoGuessr.

“When you tell us we’ve got it wrong, we take it seriously. That’s why we’ve made the decision to withdraw from participating in the Esports World Cup in Riyadh.”

Antell reveals that information on the Last Chance Wildcard event will be revealed “as soon as possible. ” Players are looking for another opportunity to qualify for the World Championship in Copenhagen, Denmark.

The Esports World Cup continues to draw criticism from some industry stakeholders and esports communities. However, GeoGuessr became the first title to withdraw from the Esports World Cup line-up based on backlash from its community.

Discussion surrounding Saudi Arabia’s human rights record has remained, particularly regarding the LGBTQ+ community and women. The Esports World Cup’s organiser, the Esports World Cup Foundation is backed by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, which has funded several sporting and entertainment events within the Kingdom.

The likes of Activision, EA and Riot Games have signed partnerships with the Esports World Cup Foundation, securing the appearance of their titles at the event for several years.