Esports World Cup 2026 moves to Paris as Middle East conflict forces Riyadh exit. The Esports Foundation officially announced on May 27 that it will host the 'Esports World Cup (EWC) 2026 in Paris, France. The event is set to be held from July 6 to August 23. This is one of the biggest Esports World Cup with a total prize pool of $75 million. The event will feature over 2000 athletes representing more than 100 countries and 200 clubs and they will be competing across 25 titles at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.
One time move and not a permanent option
This decision was taken keeping in mind the war situation in the middle east. The Esports Foundation also made it clear that this move is a one-year rotation and not a permanent departure.
Speaking about it Reichert said ‘Riyadh is the home of EWC and remains one of the world’s leading hubs for esports, powered by an incredible community of fans and long-term ambition for the future of the sport.’
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is funding esports and it is a central element of Vision 2030.
In the past the esport Foundation had indicated that global rotation of host cities is part of its long-term commercial model, with future host markets potentially paying fees to carry the event. No confirmed schedule for a return to Riyadh in 2027 has been announced.
The Official ticket sales begin on the morning of May 29 at esportsworldcup.com/tickets. A variety of passes, including early-bird options, will be available. Fans can purchase their tickets via online at the official website.
