The Esports World Cup Foundation has unveiled the first eight competitive titles for the inaugural Esports Nations Cup 2026, a global nation-based esports tournament scheduled to take place in Riyadh from November 2 to 29, 2026. The event will introduce a structured format where players compete under their national flags, marking a significant step in expanding international esports competition.

According to a press release, the tournament aims to open worldwide qualification pathways, allowing thousands of players to compete for the opportunity to represent their countries at the global event. The initiative is designed to strengthen national representation in esports while creating deeper engagement among fans through country-based competition.

The eight confirmed titles include Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, EA SPORTS FC, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, Honor of Kings, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Trackmania, and competitive chess. The lineup spans multiple genres, including strategy, tactical shooters, fighting games, mobile titles, sports simulations, and racing formats, reflecting the diversity of the global esports ecosystem.

Organisers said the chess competition, scheduled for November 2–8, will feature 128 players, making it one of the largest international tournaments in the discipline. The Counter-Strike 2 competition, set for November 10–15, will include a large-scale open qualification programme involving more than 15,000 players across 3,000 teams, marking one of the biggest participation drives in the game’s history.

Dota 2 will feature 32 national teams qualifying through global rankings, regional events, and wildcard entries, while EA SPORTS FC will see 128 players compete following open in-game pathways, regional qualifiers, and world ranking invites. The fighting game Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves will host 32 national representatives in a format aimed at supporting emerging talent and expanding participation.

Mobile titles will play a major role in the tournament. Honor of Kings will bring together 24 national teams through rankings and regional qualifiers, while Mobile Legends: Bang Bang will feature 32 teams competing for a gold medal through a group stage and knockout rounds. Trackmania will introduce high-speed competition with 32 national representatives battling in its signature multi-player racing format.

The Esports Nations Cup seeks to build a recurring global competition structure that promotes inclusivity, nurtures new talent, and supports the long-term growth of the esports industry. Eight additional game titles are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, completing the full 16-game programme for the inaugural edition.

Further details about the tournament, including qualification processes and event schedules, are expected to be released by organisers in the coming months.