Microsoft’s sponsorship will encompass all WCG events including three pan-regional championships, the Korean Championship, the USA Championship and the Grand Finals in Monza, Italy (October 18-22). International Cyber Marketing, Inc. (ICM) has designated Microsoft as the premier sponsor of the WCG.

Under the terms of the alliance, Microsoft Windows and Xbox 360 will be the exclusive gaming platforms for the PC and console. Microsoft will provide games, consoles, Xbox Live® online game service, and peripheral equipment for all WCG events. Microsoft will also supply players with state-of-the-art consoles at WCG events.

“We are very happy to announce Microsoft’s status as a premier sponsor of the WCG for the next three years,” said Hank Jeong, CEO of International Cyber Marketing. “Microsoft’s support for the WCG further validates the growing global popularity of e-Sports. Having Microsoft as a partner reinforces the WCG’s position as a pioneer of competitive gaming and as the premier event in global e-Sports.”

“Over the years, we have admired the incredible growth of cybersports and WCG’s role in expanding the reach of these worldwide tournaments,” said Peter Moore, corporate vice president, Interactive Entertainment and Devices Division, Microsoft. “Because of WCG’s history as a truly global gaming competition, it was a logical choice to team up with them and extend the reach of these events even further.”

The 2006 WCG Grand Final will be held from October 18-22 in Monza, Italy, a city famous for its Formula 1 racing tradition. National Championships featuring online and offline preliminaries are scheduled to start in April and will be held in participating countries.