Kenya to host inaugural Phygital Cup ahead of Dubai games

Esports Kenya has announced the inaugural Kenya Phygital Cup, set to take place on January 25, 2025, at the Uhuru Sports Complex in Nairobi.

This groundbreaking event will see 32 teams compete in a unique hybrid of physical sports and esports, known as phygital, for a chance to represent Kenya at the Games of the Future 2025 in Dubai, UAE.

The tournament, governed by the World Phygital Community (WPC), will feature two categories: phygital football and phygital basketball. Each category will host 16 teams.

Phygital football combines a 5v5 soccer match with a PlayStation 5 football simulation, while phygital basketball pairs a 2v2 basketball game with a PlayStation 5 basketball match.

Esports Kenya President Ronny Lusigi praised the innovation behind phygital sports and encouraged participation.

“Phygital is a really innovative and exciting concept. In this era of digital advancement, fusing the digital and physical worlds of sport is of great importance to humanity.

“We look forward to seeing an exciting national competition and a strong performance from those who make it to Dubai for the Games of the Future 2025,” Lusigi stated.

The Kenya Phygital Cup is expected to attract gamers, sports enthusiasts, and fans from across the country, marking a significant step in integrating traditional sports with digital gaming.

Winners of the competition will earn the honor of representing Kenya on the global stage in Dubai, showcasing the nation’s talent in this emerging discipline.

As preparations gear up, Esports Kenya is calling on teams and fans to embrace this innovative fusion of physical and digital sports.