Esports Foundation postpones Esports Nations Cup to November 2027 – Game News

Esports Foundation today officially announced the postponement Esports Nations Cup first to November 2027, instead of the originally scheduled date of November 2026 in Riyadh.

This decision was made after an assessment of the general situation in the region, as well as consultation with key stakeholders.

Considering the unprecedented international scale of Esports Nations Cupalong with the uncertainties from the general situation in the region, the Esports Foundation believes that delaying the first season to November 2027 demonstrates the organization’s responsibility, to bring the certainty and stability that National Teams, publishers, partners and fans expect.

Esports Nations Cup Bringing together teams and stakeholders from more than 100 countries and territories, Saudi Arabia is still fully capable of hosting events, with major sports and entertainment programs still taking place as planned.

This decision demonstrates the Esports Foundation’s commitment to delivering a world-class international tournament that meets the standards and long-term ambitions set for Esports Nations Cup since the tournament was formed.

The postponement does not change the Esports Foundation’s commitment to Esports Nations Cupas well as for the national esports ecosystem being built around the tournament.

+ Maintain support capital and development programs

All funding commitments from the Development Fund Esports Nations Cup for National Partners will remain.

Development Fund Esports Nations Cup and related ecosystem development programs will continue to be implemented, in parallel with regular cooperation with publishers, National Partners and other stakeholders.

The Esports Foundation will work directly with partners on the implications of the adjusted schedule and the transition towards the first season in 2027.

Mr. Ralf Reichert, General Director of Esports Foundation, shared:

“The postponement Esports Nations Cup not an easy decision. Feedback from Country Partners, publishers, players and communities around the world shows the great potential of this tournament.

We are responsible for bringing a wonder Esports Nations Cup first held under suitable conditions and at a scale worthy of this idea. Holding the tournament in Riyadh next year does not change our commitment.

The Esports Foundation will continue to invest in National Partners, working closely with publishers and building the national ecosystem that is gradually forming around the tournament. All work is still ongoing and our ambitions are for Esports Nations Cup remains unchanged.”

+ Global scale and schedule adjustment plan

Esports Nations Cup has created strong development momentum worldwide. More than 100 countries and territories across continents have become official partners, bringing together the world’s best players to compete in many disciplines.

Designed to complement the existing esports ecosystem, Esports Nations Cup aims to open new pathways for players, promote the development of national esports and build new forms of fan connection based on national pride and the spirit of international competition.

In the coming weeks, the Esports Foundation will continue to work closely with National Partners, publishers and stakeholders to update the competition schedule, qualifying roadmap and adjustments related to the new timeline.