Friday/Saturday, July 10, 2026

Al Jazeera - Sports:

Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Esports Federation, affirmed that the launch of the 2026 Esports World Cup from the French capital Paris represents the beginning of a new chapter in the tournament's global journey, indicating that the project, which started in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has become an international platform that brings together players, clubs, game publishers, and fans under one umbrella.

His Highness explained during the opening press conference held at the Paris City Hall, in the presence of the city's governor Emmanuel Grégoire and French Minister of Sports, Youth, and Community Life Marina Ferrari, that the Kingdom's vision from the outset aimed to establish esports as one of the largest global sports competitions, noting that Riyadh will remain the historical home of the tournament, while Paris represents the first international stop in its global expansion.

He stated that over seven weeks, the tournament will see the participation of more than 2,000 male and female players representing more than 200 clubs from 100 countries, competing in 25 tournaments covering 24 games, for a record total prize pool exceeding $75 million, making it the largest event of its kind in the history of esports.

For his part, Ralph Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, confirmed that the Paris edition represents a pivotal moment in the tournament's development, noting that more than 100,000 tickets have been sold so far, a record number reflecting the huge public demand for the event.

Reichert explained that moving the tournament to Paris came while preserving the essence of the competition, providing the best experience for players, clubs, and fans, affirming that the French capital has the necessary requirements to host the world's biggest events and that it represents the ideal launch for the first edition held outside the Kingdom.

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