The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has officially launched the national team representation framework for the inaugural Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC). This landmark announcement opens the door for countries and territories including India to apply for official National Team Partner status ahead of the tournament’s world debut in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in November 2026.
Designed to be a recurring biennial event, the Esports Nations Cup aims to formalize nation-based competition, allowing the world’s elite players to compete under their national flags rather than their professional club banners.
Under the newly unveiled structure, selected National Team Partners will act as the official counterparts for the ENC within their respective regions. These partners will be tasked with the high-stakes responsibility of building national rosters, hiring coaches across multiple game titles, and managing team identity through local marketing and community engagement.
The EWCF is inviting a broad spectrum of stakeholders to apply, provided they have deep roots in their national esports ecosystem:
- Esports organizations and professional clubs
- National esports or sports federations
- Government-mandated bodies
- Player agencies and experienced esports professionals
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and content creators
To ensure the long-term sustainability of nation-based esports, the Foundation has committed a minimum of $20 million annually to the Esports Nations Cup Development Fund, starting in 2026.
This fund is a game-changer for participating nations, as it will cover:
- Travel & Logistics: Full coverage for national teams to travel to Riyadh.
- Grassroots Activation: Funding for local training camps, national tours, and exhibition matches.
- Community Engagement: Support for official watch parties and appearances at major global gaming events.
Applications for National Team Partners are open until January 31, 2026. Following a rigorous multi-stage evaluation of governance and operational capacity, the first set of approved partners will be announced in early 2026.
“The Esports Nations Cup is a natural next step in our journey to elevate esports,” said Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation. “We are inviting partners to define how their countries are represented, creating a system that works for players and fans alike.”
Key Highlights:
- National Applications: The EWCF has opened applications for National Team Partners for the 2026 Esports Nations Cup in Riyadh; the deadline is January 31, 2026.
- Structure: Partners will manage national rosters and coaches, acting as the primary liaison between the EWCF and local ecosystems.
- Funding: A $20 million annual Development Fund has been established to support travel, logistics, and grassroots fan engagement.
- Mission: The biennial event aims to bridge the gap between club-based competition and national pride, professionalizing nation-based esports.