2025 eLigue 1 Tour: Millions on the line as Nairobi hosts grand finale

Photo || Kenya Professional eSport Federation

2025 eLigue 1 Tour: Millions on the line as Nairobi hosts grand finale

Mark Kinyanjui 07:45 - 27.03.2025

What you need to know about the eLigue1 Tour Grand Finale being held in Charter Hall, Nairobi on Friday with tantalising price money and a trip to France up for grabs.

Kenyan esports enthusiasts are in for a thrilling showdown as the 2025 eLigue 1 Tour Grand Finale takes centre stage on March 28, 2025, at Charter Hall, Nairobi, from 3 PM to 9 PM.

This year's edition, organised by eLigue 1 McDonald's in partnership with EA SPORTS, promises to be the biggest yet, offering Ksh 3 million in prize money and a fully paid trip to Paris, France, for the champion.

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About the tournament

The eLigue 1 Tour is an international esports competition aimed at promoting French football clubs and the Ligue 1 championship to younger audiences in key global markets. 

Competitors play exclusively with Ligue 1 teams on PlayStation 5 using EA FC 25.

Kenya is hosting the fourth edition, and this year’s event features several exciting changes, including a ladies’ exhibition match and an expanded partnership with Nairobi County Government, allowing for a larger venue, better infrastructure, and an enhanced viewing experience.

Finalists & Competitors to watch

The road to the Grand Finale began with 716 participants, who battled it out during the knockout rounds held on March 8, 2025, at BBS Mall, Eastleigh. 

The top seven advanced to the final, where they will be joined by the defending champion, Eric "Demon" Ngige, a two-time winner (2023 & 2024).

The other seven finalists will be:

  • Sam Oyier aka "Sam Carter" (Former finalist, experienced contender)

  • Joshua Agutu aka "Jojo" (Last year’s runner-up)

  • Harry Thuku aka "Harry Kappa" (Three-time finalist)

  • Daniel Gichimu aka "Deto" (First-time finalist)

  • Caleb Kibet aka "Prorate" (First-time finalist)

  • Harun Ahmed aka "Haruun Haruun"

  • Collins Ngugu aka "Collo Gamer" (Youngest finalist)

Demon remains the favourite, thanks to his confidence, adaptability, and ability to read his opponents' game. 

However, with Sam Carter back in the mix, last year's runner-up Jojo seeking redemption, and fresh challengers like Deto and Prorate in the fray, the competition is tougher than ever.

Ladies’ exhibition match

For the first time, the tournament will feature a ladies’ exhibition match, where four of Kenya’s top female gamers will battle for supremacy:

Brillian Nekesa, Shirley Ndirangu -'Tinto, Shantel Wanjiru and Bernice Wanjiku will be the four contenders trying to battle for the maiden crown

This marks a significant step forward for inclusivity in Kenyan esports, showcasing the rising talent in women's gaming.

Prizes and rewards

A total of Ksh 3 million is up for grabs, with the champion earning the grand prize of Ksh 25,000 and a trip to Paris, France.

The second-placed player will walk home with  Ksh 15,000. The one who finishes third will pocket Ksh 10,000 while fourth place will make do with Ksh 5,000.

Bigger venue & audience

Last year’s final at Zetech University attracted 500 fans, but this year, organisers expect a record 2,000 attendees thanks to the support of Nairobi County Government. The county is providing Charter Hall, located right next to  City Hall in Nairobi.

On top of that,  it is providing Mega LED screen for an immersive viewing experience, PlayStation 5 setups as well as bleacher stands for approximately 2,000 fans

Speaking ahead of the event, eLigue 1 Tour President Ronny Lusigi expressed confidence in this year’s tournament, highlighting its growth:

“This year’s edition is the biggest yet. We are delighted to have Nairobi County Government on board, enabling us to move to a larger venue. 

“The record participation numbers show how far we’ve come. We expect 2,000 fans in attendance, including dignitaries such as the French Ambassador to Kenya, Nairobi Governor, Deputy Governor, and Ministry of Sports officials.”

With an epic clash of top-tier esports talent, a history-making ladies’ final, and an electric atmosphere, the 2025 eLigue 1 Tour Grand Finale is shaping up to be an unmissable event.

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