Security Concerns Move the EWC From Riyadh to Paris for 2026

The Esports World Cup has been confirmed to hold in Paris, France this year. This is a departure from the norm as since the EWC’s inception in 2024, the tournament has held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 

However, due to geopolitical tensions, France has been picked as the country to host the event this year. 

Why Was The Move Necessary?

As mentioned above, geopolitical tensions have played a role here, specifically tensions in Iran and neighboring countries. Due to this, there have been understandable concerns regarding hosting a tournament with a lot of people and the security risks this could pose. 

On the official EWC website, they answered the question on the necessity of the move by stressing that Riyadh is still the long-term home of the EWC and it is expected to return in 2027. 

“The Esports World Cup was created with a long-term vision to become a global platform for esports, bringing the event to major cities around the world over time, and the decision to host the 2026 edition in Paris reflects that vision.” said a part of the statement on the website, to which they continued, “After close coordination with stakeholders across the ecosystem, and in light of the current regional situation, Paris was selected for EWC 2026 because it provides the international accessibility, infrastructure, and competitive conditions needed to deliver the event at full global scale, while also providing incredible local support and a passionate community of fans.

“While Paris will host the 2026 edition, Riyadh remains central to the event’s long-term future with the intention to return in 2027.”

This move has gained major attention with even the president of France, Emmanuel Macron, hailing the move in a post on X, where he said: “The EWC will be held in Paris!

“It is a historic first and an honor for us. Thank you to Saudi Arabia for their trust. We are ready to host the Esports World Cup 2026. Very proud to welcome the world once again.”

Paris Is Eating Good This Year In FGC Tournaments

The dates for the EWC (6th July-23rd August) remain the same, but what is noticeable is just how much France is featuring in the FGC calendar for 2026. 

France already has The Mixup, an annual event that returns this year, and will also be hosts to Ultimate Fighting Arena (UFA) which is a major on the Capcom Pro Tour circuit. But even more impressive is that there will be Evo France which is a major for 2XKO, Tekken 8, Fatal Fury: Cotw, and Street Fighter 6. 

The EWC coming to Paris this year is the crowning addition to what is shaping up to be an extraordinary year for European fighting game fans.