BLAST: putting the economic impact of esports on the business media agenda

In the run-up to the Rocket League RLCS Major 2 at Paris La Défense Arena, RevolutionR rolled out a press relations strategy for BLAST, which focused on the economic impact of esports for host cities. During April and May 2026, this included 15 strategic communications, more than 140 press mentions, an audience reach of 408 million, four AFP wires and EUR €2.7million in advertising value equivalent.

How do you position esports as the new economic engine of major cities and capture the attention of leading business media?

• Strategic newsroom tour: a series of one-to-one meetings with Robbie Douek, CEO of BLAST, to share the economic impact figures under embargo with leading media.

• Proof through ROI: highlighting the direct financial impact for host cities, such as the USD $32.4million generated for Paris during the 2023 Major, or the 30,000 hotel overnight stays generated per event.

• Media coverage of non-endemic brands: highlighting partnerships with flagship companies from traditional industries (Michelin, Midas) to demonstrate the maturity and appeal of the ecosystem.

• Global impact campaign: targeted distribution of the economic press release to business, mainstream and esports newsrooms.

What is the economic impact of BLAST events in France?

More than USD $100million in total economic impact generated for France and its host cities since 2023, including USD $32.4million for Paris during the 2023 Major and 30,000 hotel overnight stays generated per event.

What press coverage did the Rocket League RLCS Major at Paris La Défense Arena receive?

More than 140 press mentions, a cumulative audience reach of 408 million, four AFP wires and EUR €2.7million in advertising value equivalent, with features in media outlets, such as AFP, L'Équipe, Le Figaro, Challenges, 20 Minutes and BFM Business in April and May 2026.