Esports World Cup Foundation Announces $45M Funding for Esports Nations Cup 2026

The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has officially announced an investment of $45 million in the upcoming Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC). This makes it one of the most ambitious and invested nation-based esports tournaments that we have ever seen. Since it is the very first edition of the Esports Nation Cup tournament that was revealed last year, it is going to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 2 to November 29, 2026.

As the traditional esports tournaments that are generally based on a club format, Esports Nations Cup brings a country-first approach to the table, which is similar to what is observed in international sporting events, where nationality is a significant factor. This will let the players compete for their respective national teams. Although this format is not new in esports, given the Esports Nations Cup 2026 Prize Pool structure, this is going to be massive.

Esports Nations Cup 2026 Prize Pool: $45 million Prize Pool Structure

From the overall $45 million investment in Esports Nation Cup 2026, $20 million will go directly to players and coaches in the form of prize money. Notably in this regard is the equal pay prize structure, whereby prizes are awarded based on the position achieved, rather than the name of the game itself. A first prize will see $50,000 awarded to each player, with a second prize awarding $30,000 and a third prize awarding $15,000.

This approach has been designed to remove long-standing pay gaps between esports titles and sends a strong message about competitive fairness.

The EWCF has also reserved $5 million for club incentives. This will encourage clubs to let players represent their countries without penalty. At the same time, the $20 million ENC Development Fund will cover logistics, travel, operations, and development to ensure that smaller or new esports nations are not left behind. A look at the All Winners of Esports World Cup 2024 highlights how nation-backed infrastructure and high-stakes competition have already begun redefining the global esports landscape.

Esports Nations Cup 2026: Why This Tournament Is Different

As told earlier as well, the biggest difference between ENC and existing esports competitions is its focus on national teams rather than organizations. In the case of a club-based esports approach, they can be restrictive in terms of national participation because of contracts and conflicts.

ENC will address this issue by providing a platform for countries to establish their own national teams. By organizing the event every two years, EWCF is providing a structure for planning and development.

The other important aspect of the event is the guaranteed participation format. Every qualified player will participate in at least three matches.

The Esports World Cup 2026 is already gaining traction, which is scheduled to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Now, the addition of the Esports Nation Cup can be a major game changer, particularly for the esports sector that is witnessing rapid growth in recent years.