In a nutshell

• Esports World Cup Foundation opens applications for National Team Partners to represent countries in the Esports Nations Cup 2026.
• A $20 million ENC Development Fund will support logistics, training camps, and fan engagement.
• The ENC debuts in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in November 2026, before moving to a rotating city model.

The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has officially introduced the national team representation framework for the upcoming Esports Nations Cup (ENC) 2026, set to debut in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this November.

Applications are now open for National Team Partners, who will be responsible for building and representing their country’s esports teams on the global stage. These partners will coordinate with game publishers, clubs, and coaches to ensure competitive integrity and shape national team identity through marketing, communications, and community engagement.

$20 Million ENC Development Fund

To support the long-term growth of nation-based esports, the Esports World Cup Foundation announced the creation of the ENC Development Fund, committing at least $20 million annually starting with ENC 2026.

The fund will cover travel and logistics for participating teams, while also enabling promotional activities such as:

• Training camps and bootcamps with fan access
• Exhibition matches and showcase events
• Official watch parties and national team tours

Building National Pride Through Esports

Each selected National Team Partner will nominate a National Team Manager, serving as the public lead and primary representative of their country’s esports program.

Eligible applicants include esports organizations, clubs, agencies, NGOs, national federations, government-mandated entities, and experienced esports professionals with strong ecosystem ties.

Applications are open until January 31, 2026 via esportsnationscup.com. The first cohort of approved partners will be announced in early 2026.

A Biennial Global Competition

The Esports Nations Cup will be held every two years, providing a dependable structure for players and organizations while encouraging long-term investment in national esports programs.

“The purpose of the Esports World Cup Foundation is to elevate esports and make it sustainable,” said Ralf Reichert, CEO of EWCF. “The Esports Nations Cup is a natural next step in that journey.”