Following its introduction at the Esports World Cup (EWC) in 2025, chess is poised to participate in the Esports Nations Cup (ENC) in 2026. The Esports Foundation announced on Thursday the complete roster of 16 games that will feature in this global, nation-based esports tournament, which is set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 2 to November 29, 2026.
It is anticipated that over 100,000 players will engage in numerous qualifying events across 100 different markets throughout 2026, vying for the chance to represent their countries on an international platform. Chess will join a lineup that includes popular titles such as Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, and Valorant.
The ENC stands out as a unique competition where players compete not as members of private teams, but as representatives of their respective nations or territories. The event, scheduled for Riyadh, aims to offer a structured approach to international esports and assist countries in developing talent pipelines.
With a substantial backing of $45 million, which includes a prize pool of $20 million, the tournament ensures that all players and coaches who finish in the same position will receive equal financial rewards. The prize distribution allocates $50,000 to each player on the first-place team, $30,000 for the second place, and $15,000 for the third. This structure provides chess players with significant prize opportunities and acknowledgment comparable to other esports competitors.
NODWIN Gaming has been appointed as the National Team Partner for India, overseeing the qualification processes and team selection throughout the country.
Previously, the Esports Foundation selected S8UL and GodLike Esports, two prominent esports organizations in India, to participate in its 2026 Club Partner Program. These clubs join a group of 40 global entities in a $20 million (approximately INR 189 crore) annual initiative aimed at fostering a sustainable and interconnected esports environment.
Now in its third year, this program offers participating clubs financial support of up to $1 million (around INR 9.4 crore), as well as strategic assistance and international visibility leading up to the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2026.
The 2026 edition of the ENC will showcase a diverse array of 16 game titles, including Apex Legends, Chess, Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, EA SPORTS FC, Fatal Fury, Honor of Kings, League of Legends, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, PUBG: Battlegrounds, PUBG MOBILE, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, Rocket League, Street Fighter 6, Trackmania, and VALORANT.
