TL;DR
- French President Emmanuel Macron personally announced BLAST Paris Major 2023
- Paris will host its first CSGO Major following IEM Rio Major in Brazil
- France boasts rich CSGO history with teams like LDLC, EnVyUs and star player ZywOo
- Venue likely at AccorHotels Arena or Disneyland Paris based on esports history
- Team qualification through October RMR events with details expected after November 13

The 2023 Counter-Strike: Global Offensive competitive calendar features a groundbreaking development with the BLAST Paris Major, revealed through an unprecedented political endorsement.
French President Emmanuel Macron made esports history by officially announcing the 2023 BLAST Paris Major during his re-election campaign activities. BLAST quickly validated this announcement across their social media platforms, confirming France’s inaugural CSGO Major tournament. Paris brings substantial esports hosting credentials to the table, having previously organized the League of Legends World Championship finals and multiple Dota 2 majors. This event also marks BLAST’s debut as a Major tournament organizer, expanding their established tournament portfolio.
#ZEVENT22, bonsoir ! pic.twitter.com/NAPJ1wxm6y
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) September 11, 2022
France maintains deep historical connections to competitive Counter-Strike, having produced multiple championship-caliber organizations between 2014 and 2017. Teams including LDLC, EnVyUs, and Titan dominated the international scene during this golden era. While French team dominance has moderated recently, the region continues producing world-class talent like Team Vitality’s Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut, who consistently ranks among global elite players.
The presidential CSGO announcement represents Macron’s calculated outreach to France’s substantial gaming demographic. His April 2022 campaign featured a specially designed Team Vitality hoodie incorporating French flag elements. Before election voting commenced, Macron articulated comprehensive plans for France to host premier tournaments across major esports titles, signaling sustained government support.
BLAST Paris Major will follow the IEM Rio Major
While the BLAST Paris Major generates significant excitement, the competitive schedule places IEM Rio Major as the immediate priority. Rio de Janeiro prepares to host the next CSGO championship, providing redemption for the canceled 2020 ESL Rio Major that disappointed Brazilian fans.
No organizations have secured guaranteed participation slots for the IEM Rio Major at this stage. The qualification pathway involves Regional Major Ranking (RMR) tournaments scheduled throughout October, determining which teams earn coveted Major qualifications. Predicting Paris Major competitors remains speculative until RMR results establish the qualified team roster.
The specific Paris venue remains unconfirmed, though several established locations possess proven esports capabilities. AccorHotels Arena previously hosted the 2019 League of Legends World Championship grand finals, while Disneyland Paris successfully organized the MDL Disneyland Paris Major for Dota 2. Comprehensive BLAST Paris Major details including dates, ticket information, and full team lineup will emerge following the Rio Major’s conclusion on November 13.
Venue selection represents a critical logistical decision impacting spectator capacity, production capabilities, and overall tournament atmosphere. Both potential locations offer distinct advantages: AccorHotels Arena provides central Paris accessibility and proven large-scale event experience, while Disneyland Paris offers integrated entertainment infrastructure and international visitor accommodations. The final decision will balance operational requirements with creating an optimal viewer experience both onsite and for broadcast audiences.
Action Checklist
- Watch IEM Rio Major October-November to understand current competitive landscape
- Follow RMR tournament results throughout October to identify qualified teams
- Monitor BLAST social media for Paris Major venue announcement and ticket sales
- Research French CSGO history to appreciate regional significance of this Major
- Check our Complete Guide for broader tournament context and viewing strategies
No reproduction without permission:Game Guides Online » French president reveals details on the 1st 2023 CSGO major French President announces historic BLAST Paris Major 2023 following IEM Rio with venue insights
