India, Jan. 30 -- National pride is about to take center stage in competitive gaming. The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has confirmed a USD 45 million funding commitment for the debut Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC), marking one of the largest investments ever made into a nation-based esports tournament. The event will run from November 2-29, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and aims to reshape how global esports competition is structured and funded.

Unlike traditional tournaments built around Clubs, the ENC introduces a clear national format. Players will compete for their countries, not their organizations, adding a layer of identity that mirrors international sporting events. For fans, this format is easier to follow. For players, ...