FIFA and the Saudi Esports Federation have postponed the FIFAe Finals 2026, which were due to begin on Oct. 16 in Jeddah. Their Oct. 14 update said the decision followed an assessment of regional developments and their impact on the logistical arrangements needed to stage the tournament. Organizers have not announced replacement dates or a new venue.[1]
The FIFAe programme’s original schedule set the Finals for Oct. 16–25 at Abadi Al Johar Arena in Jeddah, with 12 national teams each in console and mobile eFootball and 16 in Rocket League. FIFA said more than 120 national teams entered the qualification system, which ran through five in-person continental championships. A new Champions Weekend was planned for Oct. 23–25, with three world champions to be crowned. The event was to be held in Saudi Arabia for the first time in Jeddah.[3]
The postponement came after withdrawals by Brazil and Japan. Brazil’s football confederation said on Oct. 10 that it cancelled the eSeleção’s participation because of escalating regional tensions and risks involving airspace and airports on the delegation’s route. Reuters also reported Japan’s withdrawal that day. FIFA’s update leaves the Finals’ next date and host location open; the original Jeddah plan remains the last confirmed venue arrangement.[2][4]
