Esports World Cup Reportedly Moves from Riyadh to Paris Amid Middle East Conflict
The 2026 Esports World Cup (EWC) is reportedly relocating from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to Paris, France, due to escalating conflict in the Middle East. According to GamesBeat, organizers have privately informed stakeholders of the change, though no public confirmation has been issued. The decision stems from renewed chaos involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has led to widespread flight cancellations and security concerns in the region. Scheduled for July and August, the tournament features a prize pool exceeding $75 million and includes major titles like League of Legends, Valorant, and Counter-Strike 2. The EWC, organized by a non-profit arm of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, has faced ongoing criticism for alleged sportswashing and human rights abuses. Previous editions in Riyadh saw significant participation despite protests from developers and players, such as GeoGuessr and Christopher Hancock. While the move aligns with earlier plans to host events outside Saudi Arabia, specific details regarding the Paris arrangement remain unclear. This shift highlights the impact of geopolitical instability on global esports infrastructure and the continued tension between commercial interests and ethical concerns within the industry.
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