The first Esports Nations Cup (ENC), slated to be held in Saudi Arabia this year, has been postponed until 2027. The competitive video gaming event, which features players representing different countries and global territories, was scheduled to take place in Riyadh in November.
Organizers, the Esports Foundation, announced the delay, citing the "wider regional situation" in the Middle East. This postponement follows the earlier relocation of their Esports World Cup (EWC) event to Paris in July due to the ongoing conflict. The ENC was intended to debut this year to introduce national representation to the global esports calendar.
The Esports Foundation, a non-profit organization supported by the Saudi government, has been part of Saudi Arabia's strategy to establish itself as a major player in global gaming. Critics have characterized this strategy as "sportswashing," an attempt to enhance the country's international reputation and deflect from human rights concerns and its laws regarding LGBTQ+ individuals, accusations that Saudi Arabia has repeatedly denied.
Organizers stated that the postponement will allow them to deliver an event that meets fan expectations.