TL;DR
The 2024 Esports World Cup is expected to be held in Paris instead of Riyadh, amid ongoing regional conflict and diplomatic concerns. The move is not yet officially confirmed but is widely reported by sources.
The Esports World Cup is expected to be held in Paris this year instead of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, due to escalating regional conflict and security concerns, according to industry sources. The move, if confirmed, marks a significant shift in the tournament’s location amid geopolitical instability that has affected events in the Middle East.
Sources familiar with the situation have told industry outlets that the organizers of the Esports World Cup (EWC) are planning to relocate the 2024 event from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to Paris, France. The change has not been officially announced, but rumors have circulated for several days. The EWC, scheduled to take place from July to August with a prize pool exceeding $75 million, features major titles such as Valorant, League of Legends, Dota 2, and others.
The decision comes amid ongoing violence and instability in the Middle East, with the war between Israel, Iran, and other regional actors escalating. Multiple airlines have canceled flights to the region, and local residents are living in a climate of fear and insecurity. The tournament’s initial plans to be hosted in Riyadh, which attracted over 3 million fans in 2025, are now under reconsideration, according to reports.
Why It Matters
This potential relocation is significant because it reflects the impact of geopolitical conflicts on international esports events. Moving the EWC to Paris could influence the tournament’s global reach, sponsorships, and participant participation. It also raises questions about the future of Saudi Arabia’s hosting ambitions and the broader implications of sportswashing accusations linked to the event’s original location.
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Background
The inaugural EWC was held in Riyadh in 2024, organized by a non-profit arm of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Despite criticism over human rights concerns and accusations of sportswashing, the event was considered a success, drawing thousands of participants and millions of viewers. The 2025 edition remained in Riyadh amid ongoing controversy, with some developers and players publicly boycotting or withdrawing from the event due to ethical concerns. The current reports of a move to Paris come during a period of heightened regional instability, with the conflict in the Middle East intensifying in recent weeks.
“The organizers are exploring options due to the security situation in the Middle East. Paris is being considered as a safe alternative for this year’s event.”
— an industry insider
“We are currently evaluating all options for the 2024 tournament and will make an official announcement soon.”
— a spokesperson for the EWC
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What Remains Unclear
It is not yet confirmed whether the event will officially move to Paris, as the organizers have not issued a formal statement. Details regarding the logistics, venue, and whether the move is permanent remain unclear. The situation continues to evolve as more information becomes available.
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What’s Next
The organizers are expected to make an official announcement in the coming weeks. Stakeholders and participants are awaiting clarification on the event’s location, schedule adjustments, and logistical arrangements. Monitoring official channels will be essential for updates.
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Key Questions
Has the Esports World Cup officially announced its location change?
No, the move has not been officially confirmed; reports are based on industry sources and rumors. An official announcement is expected soon.
Why is the event being moved from Riyadh?
According to sources, the ongoing conflict and regional instability in the Middle East are prompting the organizers to consider safer locations, with Paris being a likely candidate.
Will the prize pool and participating titles change if the location moves?
There is no indication that the prize pool or the list of titles will change, but logistical adjustments are possible depending on the final decision.
What are the implications for Saudi Arabia’s hosting ambitions?
The potential move suggests challenges to Saudi Arabia’s plans to position itself as a major esports hub, especially amid criticism related to sportswashing and human rights issues.
