Beyond Borders: How MENA talent is shaping Esports World Cup 2026

DUBAI: As the Esports World Cup 2026 unfolds in Paris, the Middle East and North Africa’s influence on the tournament is increasingly more visible.

Beyond the success of individual clubs, the tournament has revealed a regional talent pool that now stretches across international organizations, multiple game titles and every corner of the competitive ecosystem.

The EWC’s move to Paris, after two editions in Riyadh, marks a new chapter in its international expansion, but the tournament remains rooted in Saudi Arabia, where its long-term vision continues to be shaped by the Esports Foundation.

This summer, nearly 150 players from across 16 MENA countries are competing at EWC 2026, representing more than 40 teams and organizations.

Some compete under the banners of regional powerhouses such as Team Falcons, Twisted Minds, Geekay Esports and Nigma Galaxy. Others wear the colors of globally recognized organizations including Team Heretics, Karmine Corp, Aurora Gaming, Virtus.pro and Spacestation Gaming.

Together, they tell the story of a region whose influence is no longer measured solely by the clubs it builds, but by the players it produces.

Region represented globally

Saudi Arabia is one of the region’s two largest contributors at EWC 2026, with over 40 players competing across a wide range of titles. The Kingdom’s presence reflects years of growth in gaming and esports, supported by the National Gaming and Esports Strategy and a large, highly engaged gaming population.

Turkiye also sends close to 50 competitors, placing both countries at the forefront of MENA representation at this year’s tournament. Egypt follows with 15 players, while Iraq contributes close to 10.

Algeria, Jordan, Morocco, Kuwait and Lebanon all