The global gaming industry has once again descended upon the Fira Gran Via, cementing Barcelona’s status as the new capital of international gaming. Running from January 19–21, 2026, ICE Barcelona shattered previous records, drawing over 65,000 visitors from more than 180 nations for three days of deal-making, debate, and discovery.
Under the banner “Growing the Power of Play,” this year’s edition went beyond simple scale, delivering a sophisticated blend of high-level regulatory discourse and cutting-edge tech showcases. With 600+ exhibitors and an estimated 1.5 million business meetings generated during World Gaming Week, the event proved that the industry’s transition to Spain is not just a change of scenery, but a leap forward.
Regulation and the Fight Against the Black Market
A central theme of 2026 was the unified front against illegal gambling. The World Gaming Forum dedicated significant time to this issue, culminating in a powerful Day 3 session titled “Combating the Black Market” on the Enterprise Stage. Leaders like Ida Lopez (ALEA) and Ezequiel Domínguez (Loteria Ciudad de Buenos Aires) urged operators to use data as a weapon to differentiate regulated offerings from the shadow economy.
This focus was reinforced by the launch of the Regulatory Programme, which attracted approximately 400 verified regulators, the largest gathering of its kind in history, to collaborate on enforcement and consumer protection strategies.
LatAm Takes Center Stage
With Brazil’s market consolidation in full swing, Latin America was a dominant force on the show floor. ICE 2026 saw the launch of Academia America Latina, a dedicated seminar series for the region.
The “Brazil in Play” case study was a standout session, featuring executives from BetMGM Brazil who offered a candid look at operating in a “market under construction.” Additionally, the event strengthened ties with key bodies like CIBELAE, reaffirming ICE’s commitment to the region’s sustainable growth.
Innovation and Sustainability
Technology and responsibility went hand-in-hand this year. In a landmark announcement, Clarion Gaming confirmed a partnership with Microsoft to use AI for accelerating safer gambling innovation.
The Sustainable Gambling Zone, headlined by sponsor Gamecheck, showcased how blockchain and verification tech are being used to protect players and brands alike. Meanwhile, the startup ecosystem thrived at Pitch ICE, where applications soared by 200% due to the “Barcelona effect,” highlighting the next generation of gaming tech.
Keynotes and Collaborations
The event opened with a high-profile keynote from Soo Kim, Chairman of Bally’s Corporation, who outlined the company’s “Always-On” vision for the future of entertainment.
Diversity and inclusion also featured prominently, with Women in Gaming Africa (WiGA) co-hosting the World Gaming Forum Africa Drinks Reception, marking a new chapter of collaboration between the continent’s leaders and the global stage.
Looking Ahead to 2027
As the doors closed on Wednesday afternoon, the industry looked forward with optimism. The “Barcelona-effect” has proven to be a tangible driver of growth, with the 2026 edition generating an estimated €191 million economic impactfor the city.
2026 ICE Barcelona will return to the Fira Gran Via from January 18–20, 2027, promising to build on this year’s massive success as the premier global hub for gaming innovation.
