Mike McCabe - Deputy CEO & COO of the Esports Foundation

Mike McCabe has spent the last two decades helping shape the world of competitive gaming, but what excites him most is what comes next. In this conversation with Ryan, the Esports Foundation CEO shares his vision for esports as a truly global sport while reflecting on the realities of building something at a scale few people can imagine. From helping bring together the world's biggest games, players, and clubs to navigating the last-minute decision to move the Esports World Cup from Riyadh to Paris just weeks before competition, Mike offers a candid look at leadership under pressure. They also explore fandom, innovation, resilience, and the opportunities esports is creating for a new generation of competitors around the world. Their conversation comes just ahead of the Esports World Cup Paris 2026, which begins July 6 and runs through August 23. Follow the action at https://esportsworldcup.com/en