Paris to Host 2026 Esports World Cup as Saudi Arabia Expands Influence

The Esports World Cup 2026 will take place in Paris from July 6 to August 23, marking the tournament's first edition outside Saudi Arabia. More than 2,000 players and 200 clubs from over 100 countries will compete across 25 events in 24 games, with a prize pool exceeding $75 million.

Saudi clubs will participate, underscoring the Kingdom’s growing role in global esports. Faisal bin Homran, Chief Product Officer of the Esports Foundation, said the Paris edition reflects Saudi Arabia’s leading position in advancing the industry and that Riyadh will remain the event’s home base.

The opening ceremony, announced by the Esports Foundation, will feature French artists Aya Nakamura, DJ Snake and Theodora at La Seine Musicale on July 8, celebrating contemporary French culture and the digitally‑native audience of esports.