Just under three weeks after denying OpTic Gaming another Call of Duty League (CDL) Championship, FaZe Clan and their rivals are now gearing up for the 2026 Esports World Cup in Paris. The tournament, running from August 5th to 9th, will feature 16 teams, with FaZe, OpTic, and 100 Thieves leading the pack in terms of odds. Despite their recent success at Champs, Falcons and Gentle Mates are also looking to make an impact on the international stage.
With a mix of established powerhouses and up-and-coming teams, the EWC 2026 promises some surprises. Let’s take a closer look at the top contenders vying for glory at this prestigious event.
FaZe Clan’s Quest for Legacy
Fresh off their CDL Championship win, FaZe Clan is looking to solidify their position as one of the dominant teams in the franchise era. With odds of 6/4 (2.5), the Red Militia are the favorites heading into EWC 2026, boasting a 40% implied probability of success. Champs MVP Chris ‘Simp’ Lehr will be a key player to watch, showcasing his skills and strategic gameplay throughout the tournament.
B2B SZN 🌍🇫🇷#FaZeUp pic.twitter.com/PbSkpVdqUs
— FaZe COD (@FaZe_Vegas) August 4, 2026
FaZe Clan’s journey at EWC 2026 begins with a match against The Pit. While The Pit has shown promise, facing off against the reigning CDL champions will be a tough challenge. With odds of 6/4, FaZe must stay on top of their game to navigate through a competitive field of opponents.
OpTic Gaming’s Redemption
OpTic Gaming arrives in Paris with a point to prove. Despite falling short at the CDL Champs, the team remains a strong contender for the EWC title. With odds of 2/1 (3.0), OpTic Gaming is second in line behind FaZe Clan, with a 33.3% chance of defending their EWC 2025 title.
Known for their consistency and veteran lineup, OpTic Gaming aims to showcase their skills and make a statement at the tournament.
100 Thieves’ Road to Redemption
After a disappointing performance at Champs, 100 Thieves is eager to bounce back at EWC. With odds of 9/4 (3.25), the team has a 30.8% chance of victory, despite their recent setbacks. Led by French star Paco ‘HyDra’ Rusiewiez, 100 Thieves will look to make a strong comeback on home soil.
Team Falcons Soaring High
Team Falcons made a strategic roster change that paid off at Champs, leading them to a third-place finish. Priced at 8/1 (9.0), Falcons have an 11.1% chance of winning EWC. Their opening match against Project Notorious will set the tone for their tournament run.
Gentle Mates’ Hometown Advantage
With the support of their passionate fans, Gentle Mates are aiming for glory at EWC. Despite a recent roster change, the team is determined to make a mark at the tournament. With odds of 7/1 (8.0), Gentle Mates have a 12.5% chance of claiming victory and delighting their home crowd.