https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/interview-pokemon-company-esports-director-talks-naic-s-future-chicago-move-and-competitive-growthContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/interview-pokemon-company-esports-director-talks-naic-s-future-chicago-move-and-competitive-growthhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/interview-pokemon-company-esports-director-talks-naic-s-future-chicago-move-and-competitive-growth#u2109Wed, 17 Jun 2026 03:02:09 +0000The Pokémon North America International Championships (NAIC) will move from New Orleans to Chicago’s McCormick Place in 2027, citing surging attendance and the need for larger infrastructure. The event’s esports director has emphasized accessibility and competitive expansion, while the 2026 edition drew 16,000 attendees. Chicago’s central location and convention capacity are key factors in the decision. Sources confirm the move but differ on specific growth metrics or long-term plans.What's confirmed:The Pokémon North America International Championships (NAIC) will be held at McCormick Place i https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/interview-pokemon-company-esports-director-talks-naic-s-future-chicago-move-and-competitive-growthhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/interview-pokemon-company-esports-director-talks-naic-s-future-chicago-move-and-competitive-growth#u1366Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:31:21 +0000The Pokémon North America International Championships (NAIC) will relocate to Chicago in 2027 after outgrowing New Orleans, where it drew 16,000 attendees in 2026. The Pokémon Company International’s esports director has emphasized accessibility and growth in competitive play, while the 2026 event featured formats including JCC, VGC, GO, and UNITE. The move aligns with efforts to expand the event’s scale and infrastructure. Sources confirm the Chicago announcement but differ on specific growth metrics or long-term plans.What's confirmed:The Pokémon North America International Championships (NA