The broader US esports scene is facing hosting challenges, including visa issues, anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric concerns, and rising travel costs that threaten attendance.

Pokémon NAIC is relocating from New Orleans to Chicago’s McCormick Place for 2027, driven by rapid growth and venue constraints.

This move has revived a debate on whether NAIC should be hosted outside the United States to better reflect North America’s international community.

Chicago is seen as a practical, central host that meets growth needs, but globalization could push future events beyond U.S. borders, highlighting both logistics and inclusivity issues.

Advocates for a US-only host cite logistics, travel costs, passport barriers, and a large US player base as reasons to keep NAIC in the United States.

Opponents argue that hosting in Canada (Toronto or Vancouver) or elsewhere could better represent North America and improve accessibility for international players.

Pokémon’s Chris Brown notes NAIC grew 150% faster than expected, prompting the relocation to accommodate demand.

Examples include visa issues affecting teams, declines in Evo Vegas attendance due to travel costs, and the need for events to embody a genuinely international spirit and participation.