PARIS, France (Jul 2026) — A massive $75-million (approx. PHP 4.35 billion) prize pool is driving the world’s best competitive gamers to Paris as the highly anticipated Esports World Cup kicks off. Running from July 6 to August 23, the global tournament series features 40 elite teams from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, South America, and North America battling across 24 esports titles and a chess competition.
Pinoy esports fans tracking the tournament can expect intense action, with a few powerhouse organizations emerging as the heavy favorites to take home the championship title.
The global giants hunting for gold
Saudi Arabia’s Team Falcons enters the competition as a primary threat, aiming for a third consecutive title after dominating the last two iterations of the event. The roster secured spots in a record-breaking 21 tournament categories. With Counter-Strike 2 legends like Finn “karrigan” Andersen guiding their squad and top-tier talent like Anders “Vejrgang” Vejrgang leading the EA FC 26 division, the organization remains a massive roadblock for all challengers.
Not far behind is France’s own Team Vitality, which placed third overall last year. Having qualified for 19 tournaments, the local favorites look to leverage their massive home crowd support in Paris to upgrade their previous bronze and silver finishes in mobile titles and racing simulations.
Meanwhile, multi-game staple Team Liquid looks to improve on its runner-up finish from last season. Despite qualifying for only eight competitions this year, they boast elite rosters capable of winning individual crowns, particularly in Dota 2 and EA FC, where their players previously secured dominant top finishes.
Asian powerhouses ready to disrupt the rankings
Enthusiasts should also keep a close eye on the top contenders from Asia. Chinese organization AG.AL secured 16 tournament spots, positioning themselves as massive threats in Honor of Kings, League of Legends, and various mobile titles after finishing sixth overall last year.
South Korea’s Gen.G rounds out the top tier of contenders, relying on a balanced multi-game strategy. While lacking individual standalone superstars, their consistent point-scoring ability across League of Legends, PUBG, and Valorant gives them a legitimate shot at the ultimate crown after a seventh-place finish last season.
Pinoy fans can stay updated on the entire summer tournament online, with platforms like 1xBet providing comprehensive coverage and insights into every matchup.
