Key points:
- Blast has signed a partnership with the GamingMalta foundation
- A Blast esports hub will be created on the island, which will host several major events
- The company will also support the local esports scene
Blast has entered into a three-year partnership with GamingMalta, an independent non-profit foundation set up by the Government of Malta.
Malta will be the host for at least nine international esports majors, including Counter-Strike and Dota 2.
To support this, Blast will establish a permanent esports broadcasting facility and office on the island, which will support a dedicated production and operations team.
GamingMalta branding will be visible across all Blast Premier and Slam broadcasts, which are watched by millions of fans around the world.
In addition, Blast will support the foundation by investing in local esports initiatives in both universities and grassroots organisations.
This will support players, content creators and professionals in the esports industry, as well as generate economic benefits for the region through increased tourism, hospitality demand, and international business.
Silvio Schembri, Minister for the Economy, Enterprise & Strategic Projects for Malta, said: “This partnership with Blast - a premier global esports entertainment company - aligns perfectly with the Government of Malta’s Vision 2050, which places digital innovation, youth engagement, and the creative economy at the heart of our national strategy.
“It reflects our ongoing commitment to positioning Malta as a hub for future-facing industries, while also creating real opportunities for our young people through education, careers, and international exposure.
“By investing in strategic collaborations like this, we continue to build an economy that is innovative, resilient, and globally relevant.”
Good to know: The Blast Premier Bounty S2 will debut in Malta, which will feature 32 international teams competing in Counter-Strike for part of the $500,000 prize pool
Robbie Douek, Blast CEO, said: “Our partnership with GamingMalta makes a major milestone for Blast having secured a multi-year partnership to elevate esports and gaming in Malta.
“We are excited to bring live output, a new studio and competitive entertainment to the island.”
Earlier this year, Blast Premier partnered with Underdog for the US part of the Counter-Strike 2 Major.
Ivan Filletti, GamingMalta CEO, said: “At GamingMalta, we are committed to nurturing every level of the gaming ecosystem - from grassroots to global.
“This multi-year partnership with Blast is a bold step forward in our relentless journey to continue establishing Malta as a world-class esports hub.
“We will continue to champion our ‘Home of Gaming Excellence’ vision by delivering top-tier events and creating new opportunities for the next generation of esports talent.”
