The Alliance of Electronic Sports of Montenegro achieved a significant milestone by hosting GOTF Majors, across all four core disciplines (Phygital Football, Phygital Basketball, Phygital Shooter, Phygital Dancing), at the Topolica Sports Hall in Bar from January 24th – 26th.
A Platform for All Generations
From experienced players in their 40s dominating the basketball courts to young esports stars aged 16 to 25 excelling on the console, the tournament celebrated inclusivity and diversity. “What makes these events so special is the mix of experience and youth across disciplines. Seasoned players brought strategy and precision, while the younger participants brought speed and creativity. This dynamic created an incredible energy both on and off the field.”, said Filip Šoc, CEO of the Alliance of Electronic Sports of Montenegro.
A Collective Effort
The success of GOTF Majors in Montenegro was made possible through collaboration between public institutions, sponsors, and local communities. The Municipality of Bar provided the venue and essential infrastructure, while sponsors supplied the necessary equipment and promotional materials. Promotion was another critical focus, with campaigns spanning social media, TV broadcasts, billboards, and community engagement via messaging platforms. These efforts ensured widespread awareness, drawing eight teams for each discipline.
Overcoming Challenges
Organizing a multi-discipline tournament of this scale required overcoming logistical and operational challenges. Adverse weather conditions forced the phygital shooter maps to be relocated indoors, and managing simultaneous competitions demanded precision planning. Despite these obstacles, the organizers successfully delivered a professional and engaging experience. “The biggest challenge was explaining the phygital concept to sponsors, but we succeeded with a clear presentation, leading to interest from their side. This time, we created a project that captured everyone’s attention.”, shared Filip Šoc.
Paving the Way for Future Events
The GOTF Majors in Montenegro has laid the groundwork for a vibrant future in phygital sports. With plans to host additional tournaments and establish a regional phygital league, the Alliance of Electronic Sports of Montenegro is positioning itself as a global leader in phygital sports.
The event showcased how phygital sports can unite communities, inspire athletes, and offer a glimpse into the future of competitive sport.
