Epic Games has partnered with the Esports World Cup Foundation to bring Fortnite and Rocket League to the Esports World Cup 2026, featuring a massive new competitive circuit for Fortnite Reload.
The Esports World Cup (EWC) 2026 is set to get even bigger with the confirmation that two of the world's most popular competitive titles, Fortnite and Rocket League, will feature at the event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Fortnite Reload Elite Series Championship 2026
While Rocket League makes a celebrated return, the spotlight is heavily on Fortnite, which introduces a brand-new competitive ecosystem: the Fortnite Reload Elite Series Championship.
This circuit focuses on Fortnite Reload, a fast-paced battle royale mode. The championship will feature a duo format (teams of two), challenging players to navigate a structured qualification path leading to the main stage in Riyadh.
The road to the Esports World Cup is paved with intensity. The series comprises four qualifiers spread over six months, starting in January 2026. Each qualifier moves through four distinct stages:
- Open Rounds: Players compete to enter the next stage.
- Play-Ins: Top performers advance to the Heats.
- Heats: The field narrows to the top 20 duos per region.
- Finals: The best teams punch their tickets to the EWC.
A total of 40 duos will qualify for the Championship event in Riyadh. The slot allocation favors major regions, with Europe sending 12 teams and North America Central sending 8, while other regions like Brazil, Asia, and Oceania will send 4 teams each.
Massive Prize Pools in EWC 2026
The stakes for this new circuit are incredibly high. The total prize pool for the Fortnite competitive season leading up to and including the EWC stands at $2.5 million.
- $1.5 million is allocated to the Qualifiers, rewarding consistent performance throughout the season.
- $1 million is reserved for the Championship event in Riyadh, where the top 40 duos will battle for the ultimate title.
Additionally, teams will compete for points in the Esports World Cup Club Championship, a unique cross-game leaderboard that rewards organizations for their overall performance across multiple titles at the EWC.
Rocket League Returns in EWC
Rocket League has also been confirmed for EWC 2026, marking its return under this new partnership. While specific details regarding the format, schedule, or prize pool for Rocket League have not yet been released, its inclusion is a major win for fans.
The title has been a mainstay at the EWC since 2024, and its return guarantees high-octane vehicular soccer action on the global stage.
Well, with qualifying kicking off in January 2026, players have a clear path to glory. The combination of a structured global circuit, millions in prize money, and the prestige of the Esports World Cup promises a landmark year for both Fortnite and Rocket League esports.