The 2026 edition of the Esports World Cup could change its host city. According to a report by GamesBeat journalist Alexander Lee, organizers plan to move the tournament from Riyadh to Paris because of the growing conflict in the Middle East and rising travel concerns.
Why organizers may relocate the event
The Esports World Cup was originally scheduled for Riyadh between July and August 2026. The event will feature 24 game titles and a massive $75 million prize pool. However, GamesBeat reported that organizers recently informed partners and stakeholders about a possible move to France.
Sources familiar with the situation linked the decision to instability in the region and uncertainty around international travel. Several airlines have already cancelled or limited flights to parts of the Middle East because of security concerns tied to the conflict involving Iran.
The tournament expects thousands of players, staff members, broadcast crews and partners. Organizers now want to avoid major logistical problems shortly before the event begins.
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Paris becomes the leading option
An Esports World Cup representative declined to comment on the report, so organizers have not officially confirmed the relocation yet.
Paris reportedly became the preferred alternative because of its infrastructure and accessibility. The city also has experience hosting major international sporting and esports events.
Industry analyst Malph Minns explained that large global events relocate more often today because of geopolitical instability and unexpected crises. He pointed to several major sporting events that changed locations in recent years for similar reasons.
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Sponsorships likely remain unaffected
The possible move has already restarted discussions around Saudi Arabia’s role in esports and accusations of “sportswashing.” Despite that, the report suggests that most sponsorship agreements should remain unchanged. Many partner brands already operate heavily within Europe. Some companies could even benefit from the tournament moving closer to Western audiences.
If organizers confirm the move, it would become one of the biggest emergency venue changes in esports history because of the scale of the Esports World Cup and its huge international participation.
