Highlights
- S8UL and GodLike Esports are among the organizations chosen for the 2026 Club Partner Program.
- The initiative features a $20M funding pool for 40 global clubs.
- India’s presence expands with NODWIN Gaming’s ENC 2026 partnership.
The Esports Foundation (EF) has selected S8UL and GodLike Esports for the 2026 Club Partner Program. Both Indian organizations are among 40 global clubs eligible for funding and strategic support ahead of the Esports World Cup 2026 (EWC). The initiative carries a $20 million USD allocation, with clubs eligible for performance-based payouts tied to engagement campaigns, fan growth, and brand activation.
Over the past three years, more than $100M has been distributed across participating clubs to support marketing, competitive operations, and audience development.
The 2026 cohort collectively reaches more than 300M fans worldwide, spanning North America, MENA, Latin America, China, Europe, Southeast Asia, Korea, and India.
For India, S8UL returns for a second consecutive year after previously becoming the first domestic organization selected. The team held watch parties in 12 Indian cities during its 2025 participation and is expected to expand fan-focused initiatives in 2026.
Meanwhile, GodLike Esports makes its debut after building a large mobile gaming audience. The organization plans digital campaigns, creator collaborations, and community activations ahead of the global tournament window.
S8UL and GodLike Strengthen India’s Presence in EF Club Partner Program 2026
Now in its third edition, clubs will receive six-figure base funding and additional merit-based rewards through campaign milestones tied to the Esports World Cup 2026.
However, participation does not guarantee qualification, as all teams must progress through standard competitive pathways. The initiative also expands fan engagement programs such as the Super Fan initiative, which previously brought nearly 2K supporters to Riyadh, with larger co-branded campaigns planned for 2026.
“The Esports Foundation Club Partner Program reaches fans globally and changes the way they experience esports,” said Hans Jagnow, Director, Clubs, National Teams, and Players Relations at the Esports Foundation. He added that the inclusion of new organizations alongside established teams expands the ecosystem in markets such as India and Southeast Asia.
EWC 2026 runs from July 6 to August 23 in Riyadh, with clubs activating campaigns and competing through qualification routes.
S8UL and GodLike Esports’ inclusion underscores India’s expanding role in the global club ecosystem. It follows the appointment of NODWIN Gaming as India’s national team partner for the Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC), where the company will oversee national team formation and player pathways for the country.
