The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Club Partner Program, reaffirming a $20 million investment aimed at advancing a sustainable and globally connected esports ecosystem.
The announcement highlights EWCF’s continued mission to empower elite esports Clubs and expand their reach to international audiences.
Building on a framework established over previous editions, the program combines financial support, strategic guidance, and international exposure to accelerate the growth of professional esports organizations. In 2026, EWCF plans to support 40 leading Clubs, helping them strengthen fan engagement and expand their global presence, particularly across high-growth regions like India, China, Southeast Asia, and LATAM.
Applications are open to esports Clubs worldwide until December 18, 2025, via esportsworldcup.com/clubprogram
Eight Clubs will receive direct invitations based on their performance in the 2025 Esports World Cup Championship ranking. Clubs expected to be invited include Team Falcons, Team Liquid, Team Vitality, Twisted Minds, Virtus.pro, AG.AL, Gen.G Esports, and Weibo Gaming. Remaining slots will be filled through the open application process, with Clubs assessed on competitive performance, long-term vision, and community engagement initiatives.
The 2026 program offers modular funding to selected Clubs, enabling campaigns that grow audiences, foster innovation, and strengthen brand and business growth opportunities.
Last year, the program reviewed nearly 200 applications and selected 40 Clubs, 19 of which joined for the first time. Collectively, the Clubs connected with over 330 million fans worldwide, including 125 million in China, while community-driven initiatives brought 2,000 fans to Riyadh. From G2’s zero-gravity jersey launch to REJECT’s anime film and Karmine Corp’s art program, the initiative continues to push the boundaries of fan engagement.
Hans Jagnow, EWCF Director of Club and Player Relations, emphasized the program’s long-term vision: “Through the EWCF Club Partner Program, we continue to invest in organizations driving esports forward. Our focus for 2026 is to deepen global reach, supporting Clubs as they grow their communities and bringing new audiences into the world of esports. This program is not only about sustainability, but about building the next generation of esports fandom.”
Clubs involved in the program also shared their experiences. Layne Le, Chairman of All Gamers, credited the program with expanding the Club’s global fanbase and competitive reach, while G2 CEO Alban Dechelotte described it as a platform for creativity and innovation, allowing the Club to engage fans in new ways and turn competitive performance into immersive experiences.
Membership in the EWCF Club Partner Program is renewed annually, reflecting the fast-paced nature of esports. Acceptance does not automatically guarantee qualification for the Esports World Cup 2026; Clubs must still earn their spots through competition. Selected Clubs for 2026 will be announced in January 2026, following evaluation.
