Chess Joins the Esports Nations Cup 2026: A Historic Competition in Riyadh

Chess Takes Center Stage at Esports Nations Cup 2026 in Riyadh

Last Updated: February 08, 2026, 12:29 IST

In a groundbreaking move for the world of competitive gaming, the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has officially announced that chess will be one of the 16 featured titles at the inaugural Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC). Set to unfold in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 2 to 8, this event promises to be one of the largest international chess competitions ever, with 128 players representing their nations.

The inclusion of chess in the ENC marks a significant milestone for the game, which has been gaining traction in the esports arena. With a focus on showcasing new talents and underrepresented nations, this tournament aims to elevate chess to new heights as it continues to evolve in the digital age.

A Unique Qualification Process

The tournament will determine its participants based on the official Champions Chess Tour (CCT) rankings, allowing for one player per nation. If fewer than 64 unique nations qualify through the rankings, the Titled Tuesday Spring Split will serve as a tie-breaker. The cut-off date for direct invites is set for May 26, 2026.

To further broaden participation, two regional qualifiers will be held in each region on June 6-7 and June 13-14. Each qualifier will consist of a Swiss stage followed by a double-elimination stage, with four players from each qualifier advancing to the ENC.

Tournament Format and Schedule

The chess tournament will kick off on November 2, 2026, featuring a round-robin group stage with 128 players divided into 16 groups of eight. The top four players from each group will progress to a single-elimination playoff bracket, culminating in the finals on November 8.

Matches will be played in a Rapid 10+0 time control format, with all group stage matches being best-of-two. The quarterfinals and beyond will adopt a best-of-four format, with Armageddon games used as tie-breakers.

A Growing Community

The excitement surrounding chess in esports is palpable. Arjun Erigaisi, India’s top-ranked player, expressed his enthusiasm: “Playing for Gen.G at the Esports World Cup was a great experience. It’s exciting to see chess becoming part of the esports world and reaching so many new people.”

Sagar Shah, co-founder and CEO of ChessBase India, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The Esports Nations Cup is happening for the first time this year! I am sure there will be a similar level of excitement in the Indian community as they root for our top players.”

Grandmaster Tania Sachdev added, “Bringing chess into a nation-based format adds a powerful layer. Playing for your flag brings pride, pressure, and passion, making fans invest deeply in the game.”

As the countdown to the Esports Nations Cup 2026 begins, the chess community eagerly anticipates this historic event, where strategy, skill, and national pride will collide on a global stage.

Stay tuned for more updates as we approach this monumental occasion in the world of chess and esports!