The Esports World Cup (EWC) has relocated from its usual home in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to Paris due to safety concerns over the conflict between the USA and Iran. Organizers had just eight weeks to find a suitable venue and install all the necessary equipment for the massive tournament, which is watched by millions worldwide. The move has made the event accessible to European fans who previously could not attend. The tournament is run by the Esports Foundation, a non-profit created with Saudi government support, and has faced criticism over its links to the kingdom, which some describe as "sportswashing." Despite boycotts from some players and fans, the EWC remains popular, offering a $75 million prize pot. The event features 2,000 players from 100 countries competing in games like Call of Duty and League of Legends, though players compete as individuals or teams, not for their countries.
AI-Powered News Curation