Esports World Cup 2026 in Paris marks new global chapter for Saudi Arabia’s gaming success story
As the Esports World Cup moves from Riyadh to Paris, Saudi Arabia strengthens its global presence in gaming and esports, highlighting growing clubs, international ambitions, and a new era of cultural and competitive expansion.
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As the global event approaches on July 6, 2026, this year’s edition appears to be about more than just competing for prizes and trophies. It marks a moment that reinforces the global standing Saudi esports has achieved and sends a new message to the world: the success story that began in Riyadh continues to grow, writing new chapters on the biggest international stages.
The Hosting of the Esports World Cup in Paris is a Moment of Pride for Saudi Arabia
The CEO of Esports at the Esports Foundation, Faisal bin Homran, stressed the significance of this new phase and what it represents for Saudi clubs and local fans, noting how esports has become a Saudi success story that goes beyond borders and is now reaching a global audience.
In an interview with Annahar, he noted that hosting the 2026 Esports World Cup in the French capital, Paris, represents an exceptional milestone and a source of pride for Saudi Arabia, as it crowns a journey of success that began in Riyadh and led to a world championship that now holds a prominent place among the largest global sports and entertainment events.
Bin Homran said: “We feel great pride as we see a tournament born in Riyadh and grown in Riyadh becoming a global event moving between major capitals. This moment reflects the position Saudi Arabia has reached in leading the growth of the gaming and esports sector globally.”
He added, “Paris is a global city with a long history of hosting major events and possesses excellent infrastructure and extensive experience, making it an ideal partner for this stage in the championship’s journey.”
How Do Saudi Clubs Benefit from Hosting the World Cup in Paris?
He confirmed that Saudi clubs will be among the biggest beneficiaries of hosting the championship in Paris, noting that in recent years they have successfully established a strong presence on the global esports scene.
He explained that clubs such as “Falcons” and “Twisted Minds” have not only secured achievements and titles, but have also built large fan bases and established distinguished professional models that have attracted global attention.
The stage has moved to Paris. The stakes are still unreal.
— Esports World Cup (@EWC_EN) May 22, 2026
$75,000,000 will be up for grabs this summer at the Esports World Cup! pic.twitter.com/hZVw0FvrOu
He added that hosting the Esports World Cup in the French capital opens new horizons for these clubs to reach new audiences and markets around the world. It also provides them with an opportunity to showcase the talents of Saudi and regional players on the biggest stage in the esports sector, noting that this participation serves as inspiration for Saudi and Arab players, who are now able to motivate a new generation of youth globally, just as esports once inspired them at the beginning of their careers.
Saudi Fans Will Be Present in Paris
He stressed that Saudi fans will remain an essential element in the tournament’s success regardless of its location, asserting that the tremendous passion shown by the Saudi community for esports was one of the key factors that helped establish the tournament’s status since its inception.
He added that moving the competitions to Paris will not limit this participation, but will instead carry Saudi enthusiasm abroad through club fans present in the French capital, supporting their teams and continuing to create the exceptional atmosphere for which the tournament is known.
The Esports World Cup is an Opportunity to Unite Peoples and Cultures
Regarding preparations ahead of the tournament’s launch in about two weeks, the CEO of Esports at the Esports Foundation confirmed that work is progressing according to plan, in cooperation with various local and international partners, with the aim of delivering an exceptional edition that matches the championship’s global stature and meets the growing expectations surrounding it.
He explained that the focus is on delivering a complete and distinctive experience for all stakeholders, including players, clubs, fans, publishers, and partners from around the world. He noted that the upcoming edition will preserve the elements that have contributed to the championship’s success in recent years, while also introducing new additions and experiences designed to enhance the in-person experience and increase audience engagement.
He emphasized that the Esports World Cup continues its global journey from its roots in Riyadh, noting that the goal is not only to host world-class competitions, but also to showcase Saudi talent, local clubs, and passionate fans, while highlighting the positive image that has contributed to the tournament’s success since its beginning.