Convention - PGW 2023 : Team GO Aurora Emerges Victorious in Historic Coupe des Étoiles

By Mulder, Paris, Porte de Versailles, 31 october 2023

The electric atmosphere at Paris Games Week was charged with anticipation as history was written in the annals of French esports. The Coupe des Étoiles, the first 100% women's League of Legends competition in France, reached its thrilling climax on Tuesday evening, and the night belonged to Team GO Aurora. In a landmark moment for women's competitive gaming, they emerged as the inaugural champions, defeating Team BDS Valkyries in a nail-biting grand final.

This groundbreaking event was not only a testament to the immense skill and dedication of female esports athletes but also a shining example of the commitment of leading brands to the cause of women in gaming. Havas Play and Kia France's support for the Coupe des Étoiles underscored their belief in fostering inclusivity and celebrating the incredible talent of women in the world of competitive gaming.

Team GO Aurora, led by the dynamic duo of Sarah "Sanah" Breton and Charlotte "Cosmïc" Tranquillin, showcased their mettle in a thrilling best-of-three series. The final match will be etched in the memories of esports enthusiasts as a roller-coaster battle that saw GO Aurora clinching victory with a 2-1 scoreline. Their resilience and prowess left the audience in awe and marked a significant milestone in the rise of women in esports.

The journey to this triumph was not without its challenges. GO Aurora and BDS, two of the four professional structures competing in the highest men's national league, LFL, entered the tournament, along with Vitality and Solary. The Coupe des Étoiles, announced last February by Riot Games and Webedia, had taken time to take shape but ultimately delivered on its promise to become a vital catalyst in the development of women's esports in France.

The competition was a vital step towards addressing the gender disparity that has long persisted in the esports world. While men's competitions have been mixed in theory, in practice, they have often been male-dominated. The launch of women's circuits like the Coupe des Étoiles aimed to unearth talents who could eventually bridge the gap and compete at the highest echelons of professional gaming.

Kia's involvement in this groundbreaking event was not merely symbolic; it was a testament to their commitment to promoting inclusivity and empowering women in the world of esports. The company, which has been a partner of the LEC (League of Legends European Championship) since 2019, had a significant presence at the 2023 Season Finals in Montpellier. They used the platform to offer visitors a unique experience centered around technology and unforgettable moments, all in collaboration with local teams such as Team OTP and Team Vitality.

Olivier Bouelharrag, the Marketing Director of Kia France, expressed the brand's enthusiasm for their role in the Coupe des Étoiles, saying, "The legitimacy of the Kia brand in the world of esports is well established, thanks to our partnerships with the LEC and Team Vitality. We share strong common values of performance, team spirit, and innovation. So it was only natural for us to become an official supplier to the Coupe des Étoiles. For us, this first competition focused on female League of Legends players is an opportunity to inspire and support LoL's female talent, and to enable them to reach the top League of Legends competitions. Esport is a major sporting discipline and a movement we want to continue to be a part of."

Kia's commitment to esports and their desire to make the scene accessible to all, particularly women, is not only commendable but also essential in a sporting discipline where gender imbalance has been a longstanding challenge. Kia's ambition goes beyond sponsorship; they aim to shine a spotlight on female athletes and figures who can inspire new generations to join the esports movement. Their prize for the MVP (Most Valuable Player) of the Star Cup final reflects this vision. The MVP will receive a unique and exclusive opportunity to live an immersive experience at the LEC studios in Berlin, an opportunity that will not only reward excellence but also inspire others to follow in the footsteps of Europe's greatest athletes.

The Coupe des Étoiles, with its partnership with Kia, is not just a competition; it's a symbol of progress and a beacon of hope for women in esports. The journey to victory for Team GO Aurora was not just a win for their team but a historic triumph that reverberates throughout the world of competitive gaming. As the inaugural champions of the Coupe des Étoiles, they have set a remarkable precedent for women's esports in France and have paved the way for future generations of talented female gamers to claim their rightful place in the esports arena. The stars of the Coupe des Étoiles shine brightly, and the future of women's esports in France looks promising, inclusive, and bound for greatness.

Paris Games Week, a highly anticipated event that returns November 1 2023, is an exhilarating showcase of the latest in the world of video games and interactive entertainment. This annual extravaganza, eagerly awaited by gaming enthusiasts, provides a captivating platform for gamers and industry professionals alike to experience the cutting-edge technology, innovative game releases, and immersive gaming experiences. Hosted in the vibrant city of Paris, this event has evolved into a hub for both established gaming companies and independent developers to reveal their latest creations. With a rich history and a passionate gaming community, Paris Games Week is more than just a trade show; it's a celebration of the gaming culture that brings together players, developers, and fans from around the world. Whether you're interested in experiencing the thrill of playing unreleased games, attending insightful industry conferences, or immersing yourself in the art and culture of gaming, Paris Games Week is the ultimate destination where all facets of the gaming universe converge.

photos : Boris Colletier / Mulderville

(Source : press release)