Riyadh set to host the world’s largest esports event once again
The Esports World Cup Foundation has officially announced a total $75 million prize pool for the Esports World Cup 2026, alongside the full tournament schedule and game line-up. The global esports flagship event will return to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 6 July to 23 August 2026.
World’s Largest Esports Event Returns to Riyadh
The Esports World Cup 2026 will bring together more than 2,000 professional players, representing approximately 200 esports clubs from over 100 countries. Across seven weeks, the event will feature 25 tournaments spanning 24 competitive titles, with matches taking place simultaneously across multiple state-of-the-art arenas in the Saudi capital.
Now in its third year, the Esports World Cup has established itself as a cornerstone of the global esports calendar. Its unique cross-game competition format rewards consistent excellence across multiple titles, culminating in the crowning of the Esports World Cup Club Champion.
$30 Million Club Championship Prize Pool
A central pillar of the event, the Esports World Cup Club Championship, will account for $30 million of the total prize pool. The top 24 clubs will share the winnings, marking a $3 million year-on-year increase. The overall Club Champion will receive $7 million, with enhanced prize allocations across all top finishing positions.
In the previous edition, the Club Championship title was decided only in the final week of competition, with several organisations still in contention — highlighting the competitive depth and drama of the format.
Over $39 Million for Individual Game Championships and Awards
The Individual Game Championships will feature combined prize pools exceeding $39 million. Additional funds will be distributed through Player and Club Awards, including Most Valuable Player (MVP) honours for each tournament and the Jafonso Award, which recognises players or clubs that win a Game Championship after advancing from a Last Chance Qualifier.
Further prize money will also be awarded through qualifying events organised in partnership with leading publishers and tournament organisers ahead of the main event.
Esports World Cup 2026 Game Line-up
The official Esports World Cup 2026 line-up features 24 competitive titles, including new additions Fortnite and Trackmania. Confirmed games include:
- League of Legends
- Counter-Strike 2
- Dota 2
- VALORANT
- PUBG Mobile
- Rocket League
- Street Fighter 6
- TEKKEN 8
The diverse selection covers MOBAs, shooters, fighting games, mobile esports and racing titles, reinforcing the Esports World Cup’s position as a truly multi-genre global event.
Tickets Go on Sale in January 2026
Tickets for the Esports World Cup 2026 will go on sale from 22 January via esportsworldcup.com and international ticketing partners. Available options include weekly passes, premium tournament passes, and exclusive VIP and hospitality packages.
Building on the Success of Esports World Cup 2025
The announcement follows the record-breaking success of Esports World Cup 2025, which attracted 750 million viewers worldwide and welcomed more than 3 million visitors to Riyadh over the seven-week event period. With its expanded prize pool and global reach, the 2026 edition is set to raise the bar even further.
