Esports Nations Cup: Country-based multi-game format to debut in 2026

The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has just dropped a big announcement about the Esports Nations Cup, which is a country-versus-country esports showdown that'll debut in November 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The ENC is set to be a global tournament where top gamers swap club jerseys for national pride, battling it out on behalf of their countries. The Esports Nations Cup is all set to make its debut in 2026 and is organized by the Esports World Cup Foundation as a brand-new global tournament that focusses on national pride. Unlike most of the international events that showcase clubs and franchises, ENC will see countries go head-to-head, featuring both team-based and solo-player formats across multiple titles, though the specific games are yet to be announced.

The event will run on an annual basis and aims to bring the same energy as traditional sports World Cup competitions, giving fans the rare chance to root for their respective nations in esports. It will also serve as a new flagship event under the EWC umbrella, joining the Esports World Cup and solidifying Saudi Arabia’s push to make Riyadh a central hub for competitive gaming. The EWCF organisers have already confirmed that the Nations Cup will also welcome global participation from all regions, ensuring representation from powerhouse countries like South Korea, China, the United States, and Europe, while also giving emerging esports nations a spotlight to compete on the world stage.

And it’s not just one game. We're talking multiple titles likely spanning FPS, MOBAs, sports sims, and more, co-created with gaming giants like Electronic Arts (EA), Ubisoft, Tencent, and Krafton. These publishers will also help design the national ranking systems, qualifiers, and game formats.

Qualification Format

They’re building a tournament format that balances competition with inclusivity. Qualifiers will include:

• Global rankings
• Regional play-ins
• Wildcard entries
• Solidarity placements to give underdog nations a shot at the finals

That means no matter your nation’s esports scene, there’s a pathway in.

Who’s Playing?

Nations from North America, South America, Europe, MENA, Africa, Asia, and Southeast Asia & Oceania are expected to compete across both team and solo formats, which should open the door for diverse gaming talents worldwide.

The first ENC is set to run in Riyadh, and all future editions will rotate to cities across the globe, spreading the action and nation-by-nation bragging rights far and wide. It is also mentioned that all players will receive guaranteed prize money, with equal payout for placement regardless of which game they’re competing in. This means no favouritism, just fair rewards for skill.

The ENC isn't just a one-off spectacle but is also set to be a global gaming fixture. That kind of consistency encourages national esports federations, leagues, and players to plan long term, invest in infrastructure, and build up their teams. Plus, hosting in Saudi Arabia aligns with its Vision 2030 strategy to grow the esports ecosystem significantly.