Esports Nations Cup 2026: Format, Qualifiers, and National Team Rules Revealed
The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has dropped major details on the inaugural Esports Nations Cup (ENC) 2026, set for November in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
This groundbreaking national team event spans four weeks across 16 titles, with a mix of team based and solo competitions with partners like Chess.com, SNK, and MOONTON Games.
Competition Format
Expect a mix of high stakes national showdowns:
- Team based titles: 24-48 national teams per game.
- Solo tournaments: 32-128 players competing individually.
- One national team per title per country, maximum two players per title in solo events.
- Every qualified player guaranteed at least three matches.
Exact brackets, dates, and full title list coming soon. The event runs biennially with rotating host cities to increase global national esports programs.
Qualification Pathways
Spots split evenly for fairness:
- 50% direct invites: Awarded based on players’ competitive performance from their countries throughout the season.
- 50% open qualifiers: Online regional events open to all eligible nations.
- Full rosters from esports organizations banned emphasis on merit, diversity, and national identity.
Detailed qualifier processes and registration to follow in the coming weeks.
Since: October 29, 2025
