The Esports Foundation has postponed the first edition of the Esports Nations Cup (ENC) from November 2026 to November 2027.

According to an Esports Foundation press release from Saudi Arabia today, the tournament was originally scheduled to be held in Riyadh in November this year. EF said the decision was taken after reviewing the wider regional situation and consulting key stakeholders.

The Esports Nations Cup will bring together national teams and stakeholders from more than 100 countries and territories. The tournament aims to bring together top Esports players across multiple game titles, create new opportunities for athletes and strengthen national Esports development.

EF said moving the tournament to 2027 will provide greater certainty and stability for national teams, game publishers, partners and fans. The foundation also said Saudi Arabia remains capable of hosting major sporting and entertainment events.

The postponement will not affect existing commitments under the ENC Development Fund. EF will continue supporting National Team Partners and working with publishers and other stakeholders on Esports development programmes.

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports Foundation, said the decision to postpone the tournament was not taken lightly. He added that EF remains committed to hosting the inaugural ENC in Riyadh in 2027 and will continue investing in national Esports ecosystems.

More than 100 countries and territories have already secured official partner status for the ENC. The tournament is designed to create new pathways for Esports athletes, strengthen national esports development and build fan engagement through national pride and international competition.

EF said it will continue working with National Team Partners, publishers and other stakeholders to provide details on the revised competition schedule, qualification process and other changes in the coming weeks.