Gfinity 'Elite Series' to feature on BBC Three

International esports company Gfinity signed a contract with the British Broadcasting Corporation, it announced on Thursday, to broadcast its newly launched Elite Series from the Gfinity Arena in London.

The AIM-traded firm said BBC Three would show tournament games and exclusive short-form video content, with the weekly coverage forming the main part of a new, wider strand of esports content on BBC Three, in collaboration with BBC Sport.

It said the first live broadcast would take place at 2011 BST on 28th July.

The contract, which the company said was the first of its kind that the BBC has done for an esports series, would deliver content for the next six consecutive weeks with live Elite Series tournament play every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

British and international professional gamers would “battle it out” for a total prize fund of £225,000 across the games Street Fighter V, Counter Strike: Global Offensive and Rocket League.

In addition to the live matches there would be exclusive lifestyle segments and editorial coverage on BBC Three, focusing on the players and their storylines, the board said.

“This is an incredible moment for the Gfinity Elite Series and for esports fans in the UK and internationally,” said Gfinity CEO Neville Upton.

“Our partnership with BBC Three will bring Elite Series live and lifestyle content to millions of new viewers and showcase the incredible dedication and passion of professional gamers.”

Upton said the company was “extremely excited” to announce that, for the next six consecutive weeks, the Elite Series would be broadcast live on BBC Three.

“The BBC is one of the most world's most renowned and respected broadcasters and their commitment to the Gfinity Elite Series is a defining moment for esports and we are very proud to be a part of it.”