The World Cyber Games Committee has said that Monza, Italy - famous for its Formula One racing circuit - was selected as the host city for the 2006 World Cyber Games Grand Final - the world's largest computer and video game festival.

Located in northeast Milan, Monza is the third largest city in the Lombardy province of Italy. Monza is known as the economic, industrial and administrative center of the Brianza sub-region, supporting a textile industry and a publishing trade. It is expected that up to 800 of the world's most elite gamers will descend on Monza in 2006 to participate in the world's most prestigious e-Sports competition and enjoy a well-rounded cultural festival designed to advance cultural and social harmony.


The World Cyber Games Committee (WCGC) vigorously reviewed bids from candidate cities such as Sydney, Australia; Cancun, Mexico; and Shanghai, China. Strict criteria were followed addressing issues like location, facilities, infrastructure and promotional efforts. While all candidates demonstrated a strong will to host the event, Monza was selected for receiving the highest scores in venue, accessibility and city government support. In addition, accessibility from the players' village to the Autodromo cultural and shopping facilities, security and Monza's advanced IT infrastructure as a business hub in Europe were contributing factors in the winning decision.

Monza offered its famous Autodromo Nazionale Monza, best known for hosting the Italian Grand Prix, as the venue for the 2006 Grand Final. It will be the first time the Grand Final is held in a racing circuit, promising a more thrilling atmosphere for gamers and spectators.

Started as the World Cyber Challenge in 2000, the World Cyber Games was first officially held in 2001 and 2005 marks its fifth year. It has grown to be the world's largest computer and video games festival, expecting more than 800 gamers from over 70 countries for the 2005 Grand Final in Singapore, November 16 - 20. After being staged in Korea from 2000 to 2003, the Grand Final was held in San Francisco in 2004.

The World Cyber Games 2005 Italian National Final ended in June, producing 12 players and a one clan, who will represent Italy at this year's Grand Final in Singapore. Up to one million gamers worldwide are expected to participate in online, local, regional and national competitions in the build up to the Grand Final this year.