The International Esports Federation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with TechnoBlood ©IESF

The International Esports Federation (IESF) is to launch World Super League (WSL), a new international competition.

The IESF has entered into a partnership with Japanese firm TechnoBlood, which will operate and host WSL.

It is hoped the WSL will be staged for the first time in 2021, with the IESF stating it aims for it to become the "one of the biggest tournaments in the world".

Participating countries will stage national leagues in popular titles to determine national champions.

They will then go on to play other national teams at WSL finals once a year.

Vlad Marinescu took over as IESF President last month ©IESF
Vlad Marinescu took over as IESF President last month ©IESF

At present, its annual Esports World Championship is the IESF's flagship tournament. 

One of the reasons for starting WSL, it said, is to form closer links with national leagues.

Vlad Marinescu became IESF President last month, taking over from Colin Webster.

Speaking to insidethegames this month, Marinescu revealed he was"conflicted" over the question of whether esports should strive to become an Olympic event.