The Esports Foundation announced that the first " Esports Nations Cup (ENC)," originally scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in November 2026, has been postponed to November 2027.
The foundation stated that this postponement was decided after continuously assessing the regional situation and prioritizing the safety and security of national teams, fans, and stakeholders.
The inaugural "Esports Nations Cup" has been postponed to November 2027. Support projects will continue, and new dates and details will be announced at a later time.
The Esports Foundation announced that the first “Esports Nations Cup,” originally scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in November 2026, has been postponed to November 2027.
Although Saudi Arabia is fully prepared to host the event and major events are proceeding as scheduled, this decision was made after continuously assessing the regional situation and prioritizing the safety and stability of national teams, fans, and stakeholders above all else.
Furthermore, all commitments to support national teams and partners through the existing ENC Development Fund will remain in place, and ecosystem development programs and initiatives with stakeholders will continue.
The Foundation stated that it will consult directly with each partner regarding the revised schedule and details for the 2027 tournament.
Comment from Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports Foundation
Postponing the Esports Nations Cup was by no means an easy decision.
Through the feedback we’ve received from national teams, partners, publishers, players, and communities around the world, we’ve come to realize just how much potential this tournament holds.
We have a responsibility to deliver the first ENC at a level befitting this vision, under the right conditions.
The decision to hold the tournament in Riyadh next year does not change our commitment.
We will continue to invest in our national team partners and, in collaboration with publishers, build the national ecosystems that are taking shape around the tournament.
Our efforts will continue.
And our goals and aspirations for the ENC remain unchanged.
Please check the official Esports Nations Cup website for the latest information regarding the Esports Nations Cup.