Riyadh will stage the first edition of a new nation-versus-nation esports tournament before the event rotates around the world.
Saudi Arabia has been making waves in the sports scene. Be it hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup or the annual Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, the Kingdom has established itself as a hub for all things competitive. And now, it’s gearing up to host the inaugural Esports Nations Cup (ENC) in Riyadh.
Taking place in November 2026, the debut edition of the Esports Nations Cup is expected to be a four-week festival offering immersive experiences, top-notch gameplay, and a chance to witness esports heroes vying for glory. While the exact venue is yet to be announced, it promises to bring a whole new level of excitement to esports fans worldwide. Following the launch, the tournament will adopt a rotating host model to bring national team esports to fans worldwide.
Planned as a biennial event, the Esports Nations Cup is backed by the Esports World Cup Foundation, which also organises the Esports World Cup. Unlike traditional esports tournaments, where players compete under their club banners, this festival introduces a nation-versus-nation format, allowing players to represent their countries on a worldwide stage.
The format will welcome national teams from seven global regions, competing in both team-based and solo-player formats. Players will qualify through a mix of global rankings, regional qualifiers, and wildcard entries, ensuring a competitive and inclusive field. Every participant will receive guaranteed prize money, with equal rewards across all games, promoting fairness and recognition for all competitors.
Expect a month of festival-style programming, with live matches, fan experiences and showcase moments built around star players. The ENC is positioned to complement the summer Esports World Cup calendar by delivering a late-year spectacle that celebrates national identity through competition. With Saudi Arabia hosting the first edition, the stage is set for a high-profile launch before the tournament travels to other cities worldwide.
GO: Visit https://esportsnationscup.com for more information.