Chess is joining the Esports Nations Cup, bringing the world’s top players together in a country/territory format. The competition combines classical mastery with high-level esports play, testing both strategy and precision as players represent their countries & territories on the global stage.
128
Competing Players
$600,000
Prize Pool
Tournament Format
The Chess competition begins with 16 groups of eight players, competing in round-robin best-of-two matches played in a Rapid 10+0 time control format. The top performers advance to a 64-player single elimination bracket, where every match determines who moves forward. Armageddon games will be used as tie-breakers when required.
About
Chess grandmasters earn their title for life after years of dedication to the game, outplaying opponents by thinking multiple steps ahead and adapting strategies as matches unfold. What began as a traditional contest of intellect has evolved into a premier esport, with the competitive scene now bringing high stakes, emotion, and drama to audiences around the world.
At the Esports Nations Cup, the spotlight is on country/territory competition, with top players like Magnus Carlsen expected to compete for their countries & territories. Established regions such as Europe, Asia, and the Americas have set the early benchmark, while emerging players from other parts of the world aim to challenge their dominance. Qualifiers will determine which players earn their spot at the main event, setting the stage for new rivalries on the global chess scene.
Latest News From ENC
2026
Esports Foundation Postpones Inaugural Esports Nations Cup to November 2027
The Esports Foundation (EF) today announced that the inaugural Esports Nations Cup (ENC), originally scheduled to take place in November 2026 in Riyadh, will be postponed to November 2027, following ongoing assessment of the wider regional situation, and after consultation with key stakeholders.
2026
Kameto Joins Esports Nations Cup as Team France Ambassador
Ahead of the Esports Nations Cup 2026, Team France is preparing to take the global stage with the support of a familiar face and its first official national jersey. Kamel "Kameto" Kebir has been named the official ambassador for Team France, bringing his connection with the French esports community to the national team’s journey. Team France’s adidas jersey has also been revealed as the first national design unveiled for ENC 26, representing the identity behind competing under the French flag.
PR
France Unveils First Esports Nations Cup Jersey on the Champs-Élysées
Revealed at the Esports Festival by the Esports World Cup, the jersey designed in collaboration with adidas gives French esports a new symbol to rally behind.
PR
Esports Foundation and adidas Announce Landmark Partnership to Outfit Every Team at the Inaugural Esports Nations Cup
Over 100 countries and territories will wear custom adidas national jerseys at the Esports Nations Cup (ENC), equipping every team competing across 16 of the world’s most popular esports titles. The inaugural four-week event is set to take place starting November 2, 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. National team jerseys will be revealed in the coming weeks. The partnership directly supports the ongoing convergence of esports, culture, entertainment and sports, creating a defining moment for the esports industry and the global sport landscape.