Before joining ESL as a Non-Executive Board Member in October 2018, Thomas was responsible for the global media rights business of the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League. In his new role as Chief Commercial Officer, he will be responsible for developing ESL’s global sales and expanding all existing and new brand partners and media distribution revenue streams.

Jørgen Madsen Lindemann, President CEO of MTG: “Thomas’s experience in expanding the distribution and marketing of the UEFA Champions League will together with the ESL team help this young esports industry reach its true potential. He is a great addition to the ESL team and will be key to driving continued growth for MTG’s world-leading esports business.”

Thomas Schmidt: “Over the past few years, esports enjoyed an explosive growth in popularity all around the world. However, the commercial development of esports is still in its infancy and has just started to explore its potential. 

ESL is the global powerhouse of esports, and in my view best placed to drive the sport forward and lead its commercial direction. I’m delighted to join ESL’s vibrant team of ambitious and talented people.”

The esports industry is expected to continue to grow significantly over the next several years, reaching USD $1.663 billion revenue by 2021. This represents an 85 percent increase compared to today according to the Newzoo September 2018 market report update. ESL will continue and solidify its global leadership in the industry as the go-to brand of choice for esports.

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NOTES TO EDITORS

About ESL

ESL is the world’s largest esports company. Founded in 2000, ESL has been shaping the industry across the most popular video games with numerous online and offline competitions. It operates high profile, branded international leagues and tournaments such as ESL One, Intel® Extreme Masters, ESL Pro League and other top tier stadium-size events, as well as ESL National Championships, grassroots amateur cups and matchmaking systems, defining the path from zero to hero as short as possible. With offices all over the world, ESL is leading esports forward on a global scale. ESL is a part of MTG, the leading international digital entertainment group. www.about.eslgaming.com

About MTG

MTG (Modern Times Group MTG AB (publ.)) is a strategic operational and investment holding company in esports and gaming entertainment, whose shares are listed on Nasdaq Stockholm (‘MTGA’ and ‘MTGB’).

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