After conquering the national competition at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Zaid April will represent South Africa at the Red Bull Wings Cup World Final in Miami, competing against national champions from around the world.
Zaid April has claimed the national title at the Red Bull Wings Cup National Final, held at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, securing the opportunity to represent the country at the global World Final in Miami, United States, in January 2027.
Competing against 15 of the country’s top EA SPORTS FC™ 27 players, Zaid April demonstrated exceptional skill, composure and tactical ability to emerge victorious in the national competition. The win marks a major milestone in his competitive gaming journey and sets the stage for an international showdown against some of the world’s best players.
FROM LOFTUS VERSFELD TO MIAMI
The South African National Final brought together 16 finalists who earned their places through the Red Bull Wings Cup’s two qualifying pathways: the Open League, featuring online competition through PlayStation Tournaments and FACEIT, and the University League, which took place through on-campus activations.
After progressing through the qualifying stages, the finalists faced off in person at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, with the ultimate prize being the opportunity to represent South Africa on the global stage.
For Zaid April, the victory represents the culmination of a competitive journey that began with progressing through the Red Bull Wings Cup qualifying stages. Now, he will carry the hopes of South Africa into the Red Bull Wings Cup World Final in Miami in January 2027.
A GLOBAL STAGE FOR SOUTH AFRICAN GAMING TALENT
Red Bull Wings Cup is a global EA SPORTS FC™ 27 competition spanning approximately 80 countries, bringing together national champions to compete for the inaugural world title. At the World Final, competitors will go beyond the virtual pitch, combining their in-game football skills with real-world football challenges.
For South Africa’s champion, the opportunity represents a chance to showcase local gaming talent on an international stage, connect with the global EA SPORTS FC™ community and compete against some of the best players from around the world.
ZAID APRIL ON THE ROAD TO MIAMI
“Winning the national title is an incredible feeling, especially knowing how much time, effort and passion I’ve put into getting here. Looking back on the journey and everything it took to become champion makes this moment even more special. Opportunities like this remind me why I love gaming, competing and constantly pushing myself to improve. I’m incredibly honoured to have the opportunity to represent South Africa on the international stage in Miami. I’m excited for the challenge, ready to give it everything I’ve got and, most importantly, make my country proud,” says Zaid April, Red Bull Wings Cup South African champion.
With the national title secured, Zaid April now turns attention to Miami, where South Africa will be represented among the international field at the Red Bull Wings Cup World Final in January 2027.
