The Esports World Cup is going global—and its first stop outside Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s great sporting capitals.
The Esports Foundation confirmed that Paris, France will host the 2026 Esports World Cup from July 6 to August 23, marking the first time the tournament leaves Riyadh since its launch. It is not just a change of venue. It is the beginning of a long-term plan to rotate the event across host cities worldwide—a statement of intent from an organisation that has built one of the fastest-growing competitions in global sport.
“Riyadh helped turn the Esports World Cup into a global phenomenon,” said Esports Foundation chief executive officer Ralf Reichert. “This year, we’re excited to bring EWC to Paris for its first edition outside Saudi Arabia. Paris has hosted some of the world’s biggest sporting events and is one of the great global capitals of sport, culture and entertainment. Paris now becomes the first international chapter in EWC history.”
The Esports World Cup Is a Big Deal Now
French President Emmanuel Macron amplified the announcement on X, underscoring the significance of the event’s arrival in his country.
The numbers behind the EWC make clear why cities are lining up to host it. In 2025, the tournament drew more than 750 million viewers and generated over 350 million hours watched, broadcast across 97 partners, more than 800 channels, and 35 languages in 140 countries. The 2026 edition is expected to match that scale—featuring more than 2,000 players and 200 clubs from over 100 countries, across 24 games and 25 tournaments, with a prize pool exceeding $75 million.
The Filipino Angle
For Filipino fans, the Paris edition carries particular interest.
Defending Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Southeast Asia Cup champions Team Liquid Philippines are chasing a return to the EWC stage, entering the MPL Philippines Season 17 playoffs as the top seed beginning May 27. A strong run there could punch their ticket to Paris and a shot at defending their trophy on the biggest stage in esports.
They are not the only Filipinos with a path to France. Tekken star Alexandre “AK” Laverez has already secured his spot after finishing fourth at the Evolution Championship Series in Japan. In the Honor of Kings World Cup, three Filipino organisations have confirmed their participation: Boom Esports, Blacklist International, and Team Flash Philippines.
Further details on the Paris venue are expected in the coming weeks. Ticket holders and participants will receive updates directly from organisers.
Riyadh built the EWC into what it is. Paris gets to write the next chapter.
