New Global Sport Conference 2026 Returns to Riyadh Ahead of Esports Nations Cup

The Esports Foundation has officially confirmed that the New Global Sport Conference will return to Riyadh from October 30 to November 1, 2026. This high-level gathering will bring together leaders from the gaming, technology, and investment sectors to discuss the future of digital sports and competitive gaming. The event is strategically timed to serve as a prelude to the 2026 Esports Nations Cup, which begins immediately following the conclusion of the conference.

The 2026 edition of the New Global Sport Conference (NGSC) is set to take place at the Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre, serving as a primary meeting point for global industry decision-makers. This year's theme, "Defining Victory: Shaping Gaming for the Next Era of Competition – AI, Capital & Monetization," reflects a focus on the technological and financial forces driving the sector. The program will specifically address how artificial intelligence, new investment models, and ownership structures are evolving to meet the demands of the next era of competition.

In a notable expansion for the brand, organizers announced that NGSC26 will also include an invitation-only summit held during the Esports World Cup 2026 in Paris. This represents the first time the conference has expanded its operations beyond Saudi Arabia, signaling an intent to engage with the international esports community on a broader scale. The Paris summit will complement the main Riyadh event, providing additional opportunities for stakeholders to discuss the intersection of sport, entertainment, and technology.

The conference concludes on November 1, just one day before the start of the Esports Nations Cup (ENC) on November 2. This scheduling ensures that the NGSC acts as a key lead-in to one of the world's most prominent nation-based esports competitions. By facilitating dialogue among leaders in investment and technology, the Esports Foundation aims to address critical industry challenges, including monetization strategies and the evolving nature of fan engagement within the digital sport ecosystem.