The esports organisation once backed by football legend David Beckham is being sold due to financial difficulties.

According to a report by sports outlet 365247 on the 15th, Guild Esports has been listed for sale via a bankruptcy marketplace. The transaction is being managed by DCB Sports, an investment fund that acquired all assets and liabilities of Guild Esports in August 2024.

Guild Esports is a UK-based esports company co-founded by Beckham in 2018. It is known for being the first esports company to list on the London Stock Exchange in 2020. The organisation has housed professional players competing in titles such as Fortnite, EA Sports FC 25, and PUBG Mobile.

The primary reason for the sale is financial hardship. Since its IPO in 2020, the company's share price has been in a continuous decline, plummeting more than 90% from its peak. According to its last earnings report, the company recorded an operating loss of £1.8 million (approximately 3.37 billion KRW) between September 30, 2023, and March 31, 2024.

Allegations have also surfaced regarding unpaid tournament winnings owed to pro players. Benjamin 'Jesko' Spaseski, currently with the Apex Legends team S8UL, stated on X on July 18, "Guild Esports failed to pay the $40,000 (approximately 56 million KRW) in prize money from last year's Esports World Cup." He added, "I have been in contact with internal staff for six months, but the payment has not been made, and I no longer have a way to communicate with Guild Esports."