China-based team AG.AL has been crowned the surprise winners of the Esports World Cup (EWC) after seven weeks of competition in Paris. The team secured the tournament trophy and a $7m (£5.1m) top prize.
The event, originally planned for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was relocated to France at the last minute due to safety concerns regarding the conflict between the US and Iran in the Middle East. French player Gwendal "Gwen" Duparc's win on Trackmania helped AG.AL clinch victory on the final weekend, surpassing reigning champions Team Falcons.
The EWC closing ceremony saw French President Emmanuel Macron present the overall winners' trophy, which was brought to the stage by footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and Fifa boss Gianni Infantino were also in attendance.
Despite criticism and boycotts from some fans, players, and commentators over Saudi Arabia's involvement, organisers the Esports Foundation stated that this year's event attracted more viewers, reaching 850 million across the tournament and selling 175,000 tickets.