From Local Gaming to World Stage: Pakistan Joins FIFA Esports Cup

Pakistan has officially stepped into the global gaming spotlight as Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani confirmed the country’s participation in the FIFAe 2026 Season, marking Pakistan’s first-ever entry into the international esports ecosystem of FIFA. To build a competitive national squad, the PFF has initiated a nationwide talent search through trials and activation programs aimed at identifying the best football gaming players across the country. Pakistan will compete alongside more than 120 nations in the FIFAe Nations League, which acts as the official qualification pathway toward the prestigious FIFAe Finals 2026, recognized as the biggest and most inclusive season in FIFA esports history. This edition will feature multiple gaming formats including eFootball Console, eFootball Mobile, and Rocket League, offering diverse opportunities for emerging esports athletes. The federation highlighted that this initiative is designed to develop esports infrastructure in Pakistan and provide a professional platform for youth passionate about competitive football gaming. PFF is also actively seeking a national partner to help organize and scale the trials across regions, ensuring fair access and broad participation. This milestone signals a new era for Pakistan where traditional football governance meets digital competition and global esports opportunity.