# Macron Hosts Saudi Crown Prince: From Esports to Middle East Talks

*French President Emmanuel Macron hosted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a two-day visit ranging from esports to Middle East stability.*

August 24, 2026 · World

French President Emmanuel Macron hosted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a two-day visit, starting with the Esports World Cup in Paris and moving on to bilateral agreements and Middle East stability talks.

## Esports and Bilateral Agreements

The visit began on a lighter note with Macron hosting the crown prince at the closing ceremony of the Esports World Cup, held outside Saudi Arabia for the first time. FIFA President Gianni Infantino also attended, and Macron interacted with leading gamers and awarded trophies. This event underscores the growing significance of esports, a sector Riyadh has eagerly supported.

On the second day, several agreements on health, transport, and energy are expected to be signed. Talks are also likely to focus on Iran, a key regional player. The visit signifies the depth and dynamism of the Franco-Saudi relationship, especially as the crown prince rarely leaves Saudi Arabia except for international summits.

## Middle East Stability and Controversy

Macron and the crown prince are set to discuss key regional issues, emphasizing the need for close coordination between France and its Gulf partners to foster stability and peace in the Middle East. This comes amid ongoing tensions with Iran and the broader regional implications of the US-Israeli conflict.

However, the visit has sparked controversy. Three French journalists' unions protested against hosting the Saudi strongman, citing an ongoing French investigation into torture and forced disappearance related to the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. The unions view the visit as a provocation for defenders of media freedom and freedom of expression.

Despite the controversy, the visit highlights the strategic importance of the Franco-Saudi relationship, particularly in the context of global events such as Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup, both to be hosted by Saudi Arabia. The discussions between Macron and Mohammed bin Salman are crucial for regional stability and the evolving dynamics of international relations.

## Sources

- BSS

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Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/world/macron-hosts-saudi-crown-prince-esports-mideast-talks