Meet the ENC 26 field: Rainbow Six Siege

Brazil enters ENC as the overwhelming favorite. The roster is packed with world-class talent, including legendary veteran Jaime "Cyber" Ramos and mechanical standout Luccas "Paluh" Molina, giving the nation one of the strongest lineups in the tournament. Now representing their nation instead of their clubs, Brazil will look to prove its dominance extends beyond any single organization.

Standing in Brazil's way are 23 other national teams hoping to make history as the first Rainbow Six Siege Esports Nations Cup champions. Twelve nations earned direct invitations through the Siege National Team Ranking, while another 10 qualified through regional competitions. Two wildcard entries complete the 24-team field, all with the chance to claim the inaugural title.

Leading the charge

If Brazil is the team to beat, France looks best positioned to challenge them. The nation has assembled its own superteam, reuniting a core of players who have defined the European meta for years. With disciplined coordination, deep map pools, and a methodical style, France has all the tools to contend for the inaugural title.

The United States also enters the tournament with a roster capable of making a deep run. Young stars Shaun "Gunnar" Pottorff and Gaven "Gaveni" Black provide explosive mechanical skill, while veterans Alec "Fultz" Fultz and Nick "njr" Rapier bring experience and composure. Together, they form one of the tournament's strongest lineups and will be aiming to challenge for the ENC crown.

Under the radar

Finland, China, and Turkey could all have an edge despite entering the tournament as underdogs. Each roster is largely made up of players who have competed together since 2025, and in some cases even longer. While none is expected to challenge for the title, that added time together may have built a level of chemistry and coordination that newly assembled national teams simply haven't had the opportunity to develop.

Brazil may be the favorite after finishing first in the ENC Rankings, but South America has more than one nation capable of making noise. Argentina and Chile also qualified for Riyadh, though both enter as lower seeds and face a difficult path through the bracket. Europe may have the deepest field in the tournament, but South America's three representatives will be looking to prove the region's strength extends well beyond Brazil.

New rivalries begin here

ENC 26 will reshape the competitive landscape, replacing long-standing club rivalries with national pride. Fans can look forward to clashes between contrasting regional identities, from the fast-paced aggression of Latin America to the disciplined, methodical approach favored by Europe's top teams.

The national format also introduces compelling new storylines. Former teammates, current clubmates, and longtime rivals will suddenly find themselves competing under different flags, turning every match into a battle of preparation as players try to outthink opponents who know their tendencies, strategies, and favorite setups inside and out.

Rainbow Six Siege at the Esports Nations Cup 2026 runs from Nov. 18-22, with 24 national teams competing for a share of the $1,320,000 prize pool. When the tournament concludes, one nation will make history as the first-ever Rainbow Six Siege Esports Nations Cup champion.