Esports World Cup brings gaming to Paris landmark with Champs-Elysees showcase

PARIS: The Esports World Cup brought competitive gaming to one of the world's most famous avenues this week, transforming the Champs-Elysees into a showcase that organizers say reflects the tournament's ambition to become a truly global sporting event.

Large screens, esports competitions and fan experiences took over the area near the Arc de Triomphe as the tournament entered its fifth week, bringing together modern gaming culture and one of France's best-known historic landmarks.

The Paris showcase follows the event's relocation from Riyadh, a move organizers said was completed in just eight weeks after regional circumstances and international travel challenges forced a change of venue.

Speaking to Arab News, Esports World Cup Foundation Chief Operating Officer Mike McCabe described the move as "an extraordinary moment" and said it reflected the organization's goal of taking esports to new audiences around the world.

Rather than simply staging another tournament, he said the foundation wants to establish the Esports World Cup as a global platform capable of showcasing esports in internationally recognized locations.

The relocation required organizers to rebuild much of the event's operational structure, including moving more than 2,000 players from over 100 countries, teams, technical infrastructure and support staff.

McCabe praised the support provided by French authorities, including the Ministry of Sports, the City of Paris and local partners, for helping deliver the tournament on short notice.

Chief Commercial Officer Mohamed Alnimer said visa arrangements and logistics posed significant challenges, but cooperation from French authorities and private partners enabled the tournament to proceed successfully.