Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has teamed up with Federation of Sport, a Hull-based esports and sports hub.
It marks the Belgian star’s first UK-based venture as he continues to expand his influence in the industry.
Located in Hull’s Old Town, Federation of Sport is a cutting edge £1.6m immersive gaming centre.
It has Xbox and Playstation consoles and also offers sim racing rigs for virtual single-seater and GT experiences. The facility also has an indoor golf simulator and interactive darts setups.
The backing of Real Madrid’s number one goalkeeper is a huge milestone for the project which aims to get people engaging with gaming and sports in a vibrant social space.
Courtois told the Hull Daily Mail: “The Federation of Sport represents everything I believe in. Using technology not just for entertainment but as a way to build communities.
“As someone who’s passionate about sim sports and esports, I see this as an opportunity to inspire young people to connect, compete, and collaborate in a positive environment. It’s about getting them out of their rooms and into a space where they can share their love for gaming with others.”
Courtois in his footballing career played against Hull City three times for Chelsea in the mid 2010s.
Thibaut Courtois’ interest in esports
Thibaut Courtois’ new partnership follows the launch of his TC Esports organisation in November 2024.
TC Esports focuses on sim racing and competing in the Prodigy Racing League – which bridges virtual racing with real-world motorsport careers.
Courtois established his own racing team in the Spanish F4 championship.
The Real Madrid goalkeeper has participated in many sim racing events – particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic.
He has raced online alongside drivers from the Formula One grid including Max Verstappen, Lando Norris and Alex Albon.
Courtois has two simulators at his home, which he says he uses regularly “when football allows.”
He added: “After participating in various competitions and sim racing events, esports caught my attention even more.”
