Saudi-hosted Esports Nations Cup delayed to 2027 as Iran conflict continues
Organisers say postponing the contest will allow them to lay on the event fans deserve.
The Esports Nations Cup, an international competitive video gaming event, has been postponed from this November to 2027. The delay comes as a response to the ongoing conflict between Iran and the USA in the Middle East. The Esports Foundation, the event's organizers, made the decision due to the "wider regional situation" in the Middle East.
The Esports Nations Cup was originally planned to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to introduce national representation to the global esports calendar. The tournament, run by the Esports Foundation, a non-profit organization supported by the Saudi government, is part of the country's strategy to enhance its global gaming reputation, often referred to as "sportswashing".
While the Esports Foundation maintains that Saudi Arabia is fully capable of hosting events, critics argue that it's an attempt to improve the country's international image and detract from its human rights issues and anti-LGBT laws. The foundation's CEO, Ralf Reichert, stated that the decision to postpone the event was not made lightly and emphasized the importance of delivering the inaugural cup event under the right conditions.
Despite the postponement, the foundation remains committed to hosting the tournament in Riyadh next year.
Written by urgent.news from BBC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
