EWCF commits $45M to inaugural Esports Nations Cup

Field Level Media|published: Thu 29th January, 13:42 2026

The Esports World Cup Foundation features a three-part funding commitment totalling $45 million.

More details emerged on Thursday about the inaugural Esports Nations Cup 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The competition will run from Nov. 2-29 and includes a $45 million commitment from the Saudi-backed Esports World Cup Foundation.

That total includes $20 million in prize money paid directly to players and coaches competing in 16 different titles. The payment ladder earmarks $50,000 to each first-place finisher (whether competing in a solo title or as a team), $30,000 for second place, $15,000 for third and so on.

Another $5 million will go toward incentives for professional esports clubs who release their players to participate for their home countries in the Esports Nations Cup.

The other $20 million goes to the ENC Development Fund, which will support national teams with travel, logistics, program operations, marketing and "the long-term growth of national team pathways."

Titles confirmed so far for the 2026 competition include Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Trackmania and Dota 2, with others expected to be announced in the coming days.

The Esports Nations Cup is expected to take place biennially in rotating locations. The competition will feature teams from the major regions, including North America, South America, Europe, MENA (Middle East and North Africa), Africa, Asia, and SEA & Oceania.

--Field Level Media

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