France has been chosen to host the 2026 e-sports World Cup, the largest global multi-game e-sports championship, which will take place in Paris from July 6 to August 23, 2026. Over the course of the seven-week competition, the event, organized by the Esports Foundation, will bring together over 2,000 professional players from 200 international clubs representing more than 100 countries.
For several years, our country has hosted major international events, produced globally recognized talents, and seen a growing community of passionate fans. E-sports brings together over 12 million players in France and is one of the most dynamic expressions of digital culture among young people in France and Europe.
The organization of this global competition in France in 2026 testifies to and rewards the collective effort undertaken over the past ten years by the e-sports industry, a momentum supported by the President of the Republic and endorsed by government agencies and local authorities. This momentum will continue in October 2026 with the return of EVO France in Nice.
The three French clubs qualified at the highest international level, Team Vitality, Gentle Mates, and Karmine Corp, will defend the national colors in front of their home crowd.
Following the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the 2023 Rugby World Cup, hosting the 2026 e-sports World Cup in France confirms the country’s attractiveness as a host for major international competitions.
France, the host of the 2026 e-sports World Cup, applauds the commitment of the Esports Foundation to make this event a success.
