RTS Takes Controlling Stake in EVO

In news that has felt inevitable for some time, RTS, which is owned by Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), has officially acquired a controlling stake in the Evolution Championship Series, better known as EVO.

Widely regarded as the most important event in fighting game esports, EVO has delivered some of the most iconic moments in FGC history. However, the tournament has also experienced a turbulent few years in terms of ownership and structure.

A Complicated Ownership History

EVO was acquired by Sony in 2021, but that arrangement proved short-lived. Control later shifted to a partnership between RTS, NODWIN Gaming, and Sony.

Earlier this week, NODWIN Gaming announced its withdrawal from EVO’s ownership group. With that exit, RTS now holds full operational control of the event.

RTS and QIC Outline Their Vision

In a statement, QIC Chief Strategy Officer Muhannad AlDawood emphasized continuity and respect for EVO’s roots:

“Evo is a global gaming institution, built on community, competition, and creativity. Through RTS and Qiddiya City, we are committed to supporting Evo’s long-term growth in a way that respects its heritage and strengthens its role within the global Fighting Game Community. This is about investing in the future of play, and safeguarding what makes Evo special.”

RTS CEO Stuart Saw echoed those sentiments, highlighting the company’s existing relationship with the tournament:

“We are proud of our legacy with Evo that started five years ago. We’re going to continue investing in the things that matter to our community, elevating and empowering members of the FGC, and working diligently with our game developer partners to ensure that Evo benefits all involved parties.”

What This Means for the FGC

QIC has positioned itself as a major force in global gaming, with long-term plans for Qiddiya City by 2030. Full control of EVO, which already hosts events in Las Vegas, France, and Japan, with a planned expansion to Singapore next year, gives RTS and QIC significant influence within the fighting game ecosystem.

Reactions across the community have been mixed. Some fans are optimistic about increased resources and global expansion, while others remain cautious about the growing relationship between the FGC and Saudi Arabia as a sovereign state.

With EVO Japan 2026 approaching and EVO Las Vegas scheduled later in the year, scrutiny will be intense. Many within the community will be watching closely to see whether EVO’s identity, values, and grassroots spirit remain intact under full RTS ownership.

The coming year may ultimately define what this new era of EVO truly looks like.