PUBG Mobile esports is once again thrust into the global spotlight in 2026 after news of its introduction to the inaugural Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC) surfaced. The fan-favorite battle royale title will be a part of the event, as top nations will fight it out on the world stage in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this November.
Tournament Schedule & Structure
In the inaugural PUBG Mobile segment of the Esports Nations Cup 2026, which is set to take place between November 3 and November 8, 2026, we will see 32 national teams competing against each other in a familiar round-robin group stage format.
- Group Stage: Four groups of eight teams.
- Top 16 Advance: The top four from each group move to the Grand Final.
- Grand Final: A best-of up to 18 matches to determine the champion using the Smash Point format.
This format is known for its fair point system, especially for Battle Royale games, where consistent high placements along with overall performance are as crucial as clutch plays that end in a “Winner Winner Chicken Dinner” get equally represented on the scoreboard.
Qualification Pathways
Two main qualification routes have been picked by the organizers for teams to make it to the big stage:
- Direct Invitations (16 slots):
- 12 teams based on the PUBG Mobile National Team Ranking.
- 4 teams receive special invites.
- Regional Qualifiers (16 slots):
- 14 teams qualify through the double-elimination regional brackets.
- 2 wildcard slots.
The regional qualifiers are set to take place between July 10 and July 12, 2026, across all the regions, including North & Central America, South America, Europe, MENA, Africa, and Southeast Asia + Oceania, thereby giving teams enough time to practice and prepare.
As the competitive scene for PUBG Mobile continues to grow, representation at the inaugural Esports Nations Cup 2026 will play an important role in the image of the brand. Given that the event is dominated by PC and Console esports tournaments, having a mobile game shows its popularity on the global stage.