Esports Foundation to invest €250M for 2026 World Cup in Paris

The Esports Foundation will invest approximately €250 million to stage the relocated 2026 Esports World Cup in Paris, scheduled for July 6 through Aug. 23. Organizers moved the tournament from Riyadh because of security concerns tied to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The Office of the President of France said the funding package will cover venue infrastructure, production, accommodation and transportation, as well as broadcasting, opening and closing ceremonies and fan engagement activities. French officials said the money is intended to adapt logistics and services on short notice to host the international competition.

Organizers selected Paris as the replacement host and are working with French authorities to finalize venues and operational plans for the multiweek tournament. Production and fan engagement have been identified as priority areas in the investment plan to meet international broadcast standards and spectator needs.

French authorities provided a preliminary estimate that the event could generate about €600 million in indirect economic impact for the country. Officials expect spending by visitors, local services and media production to account for a large portion of that increase.

The Esports World Cup is organized by the Esports Foundation and brings together professional teams and fans across multiple competitive gaming disciplines. The decision to relocate the 2026 event reflects concerns over regional security that affected the original Riyadh plans.