Saudia has been named the official airline of the Esports World Cup 2026, extending the tournament’s presence beyond competition venues and into air travel. The partnership links Saudi Arabia’s national carrier with one of the biggest events in competitive gaming, highlighting how esports is reaching broader audiences through travel, entertainment and branding.
A central part of the announcement is a branded Esports World Cup aircraft, described as the world’s first commercial plane themed around esports. The move is designed to turn the journey itself into part of the event experience, giving the tournament a visible identity outside the arena and reinforcing Riyadh’s role as a major hub for global gaming events.
Saudia also said it will introduce in-flight esports entertainment and fan-focused experiences tied to routes connecting Riyadh and Paris. That approach suggests the airline is aiming to create a more immersive trip for travelers and supporters, while strengthening the connection between international fans and the tournament ecosystem.
The partnership reflects the growing overlap between aviation, live events and gaming culture. By aligning with Esports World Cup 2026, Saudia is positioning itself at the center of a high-profile sports and entertainment property while helping bring the event to passengers before they even arrive.