Geopolitical Influences on Esports Finances

Christina Philippou; Sarthak Mondal

doi:10.4324/9781003725817-6

Geopolitical Influences on Esports Finances

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Chapter (peer-reviewed) › peer-review

Abstract

This chapter explores how geopolitical factors shape esports financing through investment, ownership, sponsorship, and prize structures. It highlights how nation-states and private entities use esports for soft power, cultural diplomacy, and economic strategy, revealing complex interplays between politics and global digital sport economies. Throughout, this chapter analyses how financial flows mirror broader geopolitical agendas and conflicts, and the influence this then has on the esports industry.

Original language	English
Title of host publication	The Geopolitical Economy of Esports
Editors	Simon Chadwick, Yue Meng-Lewis, Donna Wong, Paul Widdop
Publisher	Routledge
Chapter	5
Pages	28-33
ISBN (Electronic)	9781003725817
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003725817-6
Publication status	Published - 6 May 2026

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AB - This chapter explores how geopolitical factors shape esports financing through investment, ownership, sponsorship, and prize structures. It highlights how nation-states and private entities use esports for soft power, cultural diplomacy, and economic strategy, revealing complex interplays between politics and global digital sport economies. Throughout, this chapter analyses how financial flows mirror broader geopolitical agendas and conflicts, and the influence this then has on the esports industry.

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A2 - Wong, Donna

A2 - Widdop, Paul

PB - Routledge

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Geopolitical Influences on Esports Finances

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