June 2026
Gen Z esports fans are showing up in record numbers
A new report says that Gen Z are not the bedroom-dwelling loners many people think. They are now actively seeking physical experiences too – and prepared to pay. Here’s what that means for phygital sport.
In pictures: all the action from Phygital Contenders Astana 2026
Highlights from Phygital Contenders Astana 2026, the final qualifying stage for next month’s Games of the Future, saw both joy and heartbreak for the more than 200 competitors who took part.
How South Africa cracked the phygital code
Edgar Kagiso Sandamela, CEO of Phygital Games South Africa, explains how – after a shaky start – he managed to take his home nation to the very top of global phygital rankings.
“Forget everything you know about tournament licensing!”
William Al-Badeesh is Phygital International’s point man when it comes to building and nurturing partnerships with gaming publishers. Here he talks about how trust is vital – and why he never delivers the same pitch twice.
PI launches brand new streaming service Phygital+
Phygital International's media rights team talk about the OTT platform designed to give the Games of the Future a permanent home — and how it could fund the next generation of digital athletes.
“It's a huge opportunity for me – and for the city"
Astana locals Sati, 16, and Mukhammed, 17, talk about their volunteering work Phygital Contenders and why they can’t wait for the full GOTF experience next month.