The International Esports Federation (IESF) today announced HRH Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud as its new Acting President. The news follows Vlad Marinescu’s decision to step down from the position.

HRH Prince Faisal will assume his new role with immediate effect having previously been the organization’s Global Vice-President in the interim until the upcoming general assembly, where the new president will be voted in.

• HRH Prince Faisal replaces outgoing President Vlad Marinescu with immediate effect
• IESF will make the official selection following a vote at the next General Assembly

It is worth noting that the decision of Marinescu to step down stems from the evolving demands to serve the global eSports community and he believes that a heightened level of dedication is required, firmly entrusting this responsibility to HRH Prince Faisal, the newly appointed Acting President.

“I believe what we need now is a total unity of eSports at the international level, which will lead to recognition by the Olympic movement and closer relations with publishers,” Marinescu said. “I believe that the right person to lead us to this unity is HRH Prince Faisal.

“He is a person that I respect and appreciate, who breaths and bleeds eSports. He has set an example in Saudi Arabia of what a national federation can achieve. He is well respected and also holds high positions in the Global Esports Federation. He is a friend who I trust with this heavy next task and to further develop and promote the IESF.”

“I am honored to have been trusted with this key position within the IESF and look forward to continuing the magnificent work that has been driven under Vlad’s remarkable leadership in recent years,” HRH Prince Faisal said.

“Looking ahead, I am greatly enthused by the opportunities to elevate the world of eSports to greater heights. With a strong emphasis on strategy, governance and growth, the IESF will continue organizing exceptional tournaments and events, uniting the world’s elite eSports athletes and fostering an inclusive environment of fair competition to support the global esports community and drive our industry forward.

“Working alongside Vlad has been a true please. The IESF would not be in the brilliant position it is today without his ideas, influence and impact. I echo the sentiment of all my colleagues and friends at the IESF in wishing him the very best for the future.”

Along with his interim presidency, HRH Prince Faisal will retain his position as Vice-President of the Global Esports Federation. Additionally, he brings in vast experience and expertise in the eSports space from his other roles in the sector. He has led both the Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) and Arab Esports Federation (AEF) since their establishment in 2017, combining his roles and responsibilities with those of the IESF Global Vice-President.