ICE Barcelona 2026: Gaming's Global Powerhouse Lands in Spain

_{Fira Barcelona Gran Via hosts ICE Barcelona for the first time welcoming more than 65,000 delegates. (Image: ICE/Clarion Events)}

The global gaming world has descended on Spain as ICE Barcelona 2026 takes over Fira Barcelona Gran Via for its debut in the Catalan capital. From 19–21 January, more than 65,000 attendees and 600+ exhibitors have transformed the venue into the epicentre of gaming innovation, strategy, and networking.

The event marks a strategic move from London to Barcelona, aiming to expand reach while retaining ICE's legacy as the gaming industry's flagship gathering. As part of World Gaming Week, the conference has delivered on its promise of immersive content, tech showcases and access to decision-makers shaping the global gaming landscape.

Global Themes and High-Level Insight

ICE 2026 has positioned itself as more than an expo. With the rise of online casinos and digital-first gaming platforms, the World Gaming Forum (WGF) anchors a multi-track programme…

The World Regulatory Briefing has focused on policy alignment, consumer protection and illegal market disruption. At the Casino Leaders Conference, operators gained strategic and operational insight tailored to land-based and hybrid businesses.

Meanwhile, the Sports Leaders Conference explored fan engagement trends, sports integrity and cutting-edge betting technology.

Elsewhere, the Esports Betting Conference has examined how data and analytics are transforming competitive gaming, while the Innovating Lotteries Conference spotlighted cross-sector product disruption and new technologies. Workshops have covered topics like new market entry strategies, cybercrime, fraud prevention and customer journey optimisation. Networking events and roundtables throughout the week have encouraged collaboration across sectors.

Show Floor: Startups, Sustainability and Esports

Fira Gran Via's exhibition halls were transformed into a high-energy hub of business activity and innovation. Product launches, live demos and investment pitches played out alongside zones dedicated to sustainable gambling initiatives, live esports competition, and a startup accelerator programme through Pitch ICE and ICE Startups.

_{Delegates are spoilt for choice with launches, demos and pitches at ICE26. (Image: ICE/Clarion Events)}

Confirmed exhibitors included platform and content providers, payment and compliance solutions, and gaming hardware companies. Many used the event to unveil new offerings and secure strategic partnerships.

A Week of Networking, Thought Leadership and Big Names

World Gaming Week kicked off with Day Zero networking at Time Out Market Barcelona, followed by the ICE World Gaming Gala at La Llotja de Mar, a night of celebration in one of the city’s architectural landmarks.

Day one launched with the ICE Opening Ceremony and rolled into live tournament action at the Esports Arena. Alexandre Tomic, founder of ALEA, spoke at the ICE Startups accelerator, sharing insight on scaling gaming ventures.

Casa Brazil made its debut, showcasing the region's rapid growth and regulatory shifts. The Sustainable Gambling Zone also hosted the SGS Ed charity donation ceremony, reflecting gaming's evolving social responsibility ethos.

_{A packed floor at ICE2026. (Image: Will Chimes/OpticsPR}

In the WGF conference hall, Bally's Chairman Soo Kim delivered a keynote on leadership in a regulated future. Marjan shared its vision for Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism-driven growth. GCGRA's Jennifer Charlton provided rare regulatory insight, while a Global M&A panel forecast major consolidation trends for 2026.

Elsewhere, McLaren Racing led a panel on brand partnerships in gaming, followed by Uplatform's Eduardo Costabal discussing platform growth strategies. The day closed with the ICE Barcelona Beer Festival and appearances from Max Hopp and Levan Saginashvili.

ICE is Hub for Global Strategy

For regulators, casino operators, tech suppliers and investors, ICE Barcelona 2026 has solidified its place as a critical hub for global strategy. With its mix of policy dialogue, tech innovation, market access and high-level networking, it sets the tone for the gaming year ahead.

Day 2 Key Moments

ICE Esports Arena – Semi Finals & Grand Final - Time: 10:00–13:00 -📍Location: ICE Esports Arena

ICE Innovators Challenge + Microsoft Keynote Presentations - Time:
10:15–11:45: ICE Innovators Challenge with Microsoft 
11:45–12:45: Microsoft Keynote Presentations 
12:45–13:15: Networking with Microsoft (Open invite) 
📍Location: Enterprise Stage

Pitch ICE - Time: 11:00–12:30 -📍Location: Pitch ICE Stage

ICE Happy Hour - ICE Barcelona Beer Festival -Time: 16:00-17:00 - 📍Location: La Avenida 1 Beer Garden

AAG Multicultural Mixer - Networking event for DEIB  - Time: 16:00–17:00 CET - 📍Location: Pitch ICE Stage

Sportingtech Happy Hour - Time: 16:00–17:00 CET -📍Location: Pitch ICE Stage

European Casino Floor Excellence Awards - Time: 17:00–18:00 CET - 📍Location: Enterprise Stage