Inaugural Esports Nations Cup Set to Make Debut in Riyadh in November 2026
The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has recently announced the eagerly awaited start dates and prize structure for the inaugural Esports Nations Cup (ENC) set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 2 to 29, 2026. The ENC is a significant addition to the esports calendar as it provides players with the unique opportunity to represent their respective countries on a global stage.
Prize Model and Funding Commitment
The ENC is supported by a substantial funding commitment of $45 million (approximately INR 414 crore), divided into three parts to enhance the esports ecosystem. This funding is structured to provide support through player and coach prizing, club release incentives, and national team development. The tournament will offer a total prize pool of $20 million (approx. INR 184 crore) to be distributed directly to players and coaches across 16 titles.
First-place winners will receive $50,000 (approx. INR 46 lakh) per player, while second place will award $30,000 (approx. INR 28 lakh) per player, and third place will offer $15,000 (approx. INR 14 lakh) per player. This prize model aims to maintain fairness and sustainability in the competition while also supporting the long-term growth of players, clubs, and national esports programs.
Expanding the Reach of Esports
Ralf Reichert, CEO of the EWCF, emphasized the significance of national teams in esports, stating that they bring a new layer to the industry that is rooted in identity and pride. He highlighted that while clubs are integral to esports, nation-based competitions broaden the scope, create new rivalries, and engage more fans from the outset. The ENC aims to provide a platform for players to showcase their skills at a national level and foster a sense of national pride.
At the ENC Finals, team competitions will feature 24 to 48 national teams per title, while solo competitions will include 32 to 128 players. Each nation will be represented by an official national team per title, with up to two players per title.
Future of the Esports Nations Cup
Following the inaugural event in Riyadh in 2026, the ENC will adopt a rotating host-city model, with the competition taking place every two years. This structured approach aims to provide a stable framework for players, partners, and national programs to plan for the long term.
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Trackmania, and Dota 2 have already been confirmed as titles for the ENC 2026, with additional titles set to be announced in the coming days.
Overall, the launch of the Esports Nations Cup marks a significant milestone in the evolution of esports, bringing together players from around the world to compete on a national stage and showcase their skills to a global audience.
The Rise of Badminton in Esports
While the Esports Nations Cup is set to showcase a variety of popular titles, the world of esports is also seeing a rise in the inclusion of traditional sports like badminton. With its fast-paced gameplay, strategic elements, and competitive nature, badminton has garnered a significant following in the esports community.
Badminton esports tournaments are gaining traction globally, attracting top players who excel in the physical sport as well as the virtual realm. Players are now able to compete in virtual badminton matches that require precision, timing, and strategic thinking, similar to the real-world sport.
The Appeal of Badminton in Esports
Badminton esports offers a unique blend of physical agility and mental acuity, making it an attractive option for both players and spectators. The fast-paced gameplay and intense rallies translate well into the esports format, creating an engaging and thrilling viewing experience for fans.
Additionally, badminton esports allows players to showcase their skills and creativity in a virtual setting, opening up new avenues for competitive gameplay and innovation within the sport.
The Future of Badminton in Esports
As the esports industry continues to grow, the inclusion of traditional sports like badminton provides an opportunity for new audiences to engage with the sport in a digital format. With advancements in technology and gaming platforms, the potential for badminton esports to reach a wider audience and establish itself as a prominent title in the esports landscape is promising.
Badminton esports is poised to attract top talent, foster international competitions, and create a vibrant community of players and fans who share a passion for the sport. The integration of badminton into the esports ecosystem represents a dynamic evolution of traditional sports in the digital age.
Conclusion
As the esports industry continues to evolve and expand, the inclusion of traditional sports like badminton brings a new dimension to competitive gaming. The rise of badminton in esports not only showcases the versatility of the sport but also highlights the potential for innovation and growth within the esports landscape.
With the Esports Nations Cup paving the way for national team competitions in esports, the future looks bright for badminton esports as it gains recognition and popularity among players and fans worldwide. As the boundaries between physical and virtual sports blur, badminton esports stands out as a promising contender in the ever-growing world of competitive gaming.
