Esports Nations Cup Delayed Until 2027 Amid Regional Uncertainty

The Esports Nations Cup, initially set to take place from November 10-15 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has been postponed until November 2027. The Esports Foundation announced this decision, citing ongoing assessments of the "wider regional situation" as the primary reason for the delay.

This postponement follows the recent relocation of the Esports World Cup 2026 from Riyadh to Paris, a move prompted by escalating tensions in the region, particularly related to the conflict in Iran.

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports Foundation, emphasized that the decision to delay the tournament was not made lightly. He acknowledged the enthusiasm and potential expressed by National Team Partners, publishers, players, and communities worldwide, stating the importance of delivering the inaugural event under suitable conditions.

In the announcement, the Esports Foundation indicated that stakeholders would be contacted in the coming weeks to clarify the updated competition calendar, qualification pathways, and other implications arising from the new timeline. This suggests that a new qualification process may be established for the rescheduled event.