Esports Nations Cup: A New Era of Global Competition

The Esports World Cup Foundation has announced the Esports Nations Cup (ENC), a groundbreaking tournament where players will compete under national banners in both team and solo formats. The inaugural event will be held in November 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with host cities rotating every two years.

Key Takeaways

• ENC launches in November 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
• The biennial event features rotating host cities to ensure global participation.
• Equal rewards across all games and guaranteed prize money.
• Combines national team matches with individual competitions.

A New Model for Global Competition

The ENC emphasizes inclusivity and competitiveness with a structure that balances team-based and solo play. Guaranteed prize pools and equal rewards across all titles ensure fairness, while a rotating host city model strengthens international collaboration and visibility.

Professionalization of Esports

By introducing a reliable biennial schedule and national representation, the ENC mirrors the structure of traditional global sporting events. Its announcement at the New Global Sport Conference in Riyadh—attended by 1,500 industry leaders—signals the tournament’s ambition to become a recurring esports landmark.

Looking Ahead

The ENC promises to blend national pride with competitive integrity, creating a new stage for both established pros and emerging talent. With further details to come in the months ahead, the event is poised to be a transformative force in the global esports calendar.