Australia’s best esports athletes have a new global peak to climb, with the Global Esports Federation (GEF) officially awarding its flagship 2026 Global Esports World Finals to the City of Los Angeles.
The announcement follows a competitive selection process involving cities from around the world. The landmark agreement, which appoints the Los Angeles Times Media Group as host partner, was formalized at their headquarters in the presence of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and El Segundo Mayor Chris Pimentel, signalling significant civic and regional support for the event. The Opening Ceremony for the #GEG26 finals is scheduled for Friday, 4 December 2026.
As the official Australian member federation to the GEF, Esports Australia is thrilled by this announcement and the incredible opportunity it represents for our local talent. This news officially fires the starting gun on the journey for our nation’s players to earn the right to wear the green and gold on one of the biggest stages in esports.
“This is a landmark announcement for the global esports community, and it’s particularly exciting for our Australian athletes,” said Darren Kwan, President of Esports Australia. “Winning a competitive global bid like this proves the immense scale and vision for the event. Los Angeles is a global hub of entertainment, and the plans for a dedicated esports stadium show the incredible prestige of the World Finals.”
“Our core commitment at Esports Australia is to build a robust and fair pathway for our nation’s talent. We are incredibly excited to begin developing the qualification process that will give aspiring Australian players a clear shot at representing our country and competing for a world title at #GEG26.”
The international significance of the decision was highlighted by GEF President and CEO, Paul J. Foster, who celebrated Los Angeles as “the epicenter of sport, entertainment, music, culture – a world of limitless possibilities.”
Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, Executive Chairman of the LA Times, underscored the event’s synergy with the city’s preparations for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. “Esports adds to that momentum, bringing its global energy and uniting gaming, sport, and a new wave of entertainment,” he said.
Esports Australia will be working closely with the Global Esports Federation and our local partners to define the national selection process. Details regarding the specific game titles, competition formats, and timelines for the Australian qualifiers will be announced in the coming months.
Aspiring national athletes and passionate fans are encouraged to follow Esports Australia’s official channels for all future updates on the road to the Los Angeles 2026 Global Esports World Finals.
About Esports Australia: Esports Australia is the national body for esports in Australia. As a member of the Global Esports Federation, we are dedicated to the growth, legitimacy, and sustainability of the Australian esports ecosystem, providing pathways and support for athletes to compete at the highest international levels.
About the Global Esports Federation: The Global Esports Federation is the convening body for the world’s esports ecosystem. Committed to promoting the credibility, legitimacy, and prestige of esports, the GEF connects athletes, players, industry leaders, and a global network of Member Federations. It is the organizer of the Global Esports Games, the federation’s flagship international competition, uniting the world through esports.
Learn more about GEF at https://www.globalesports.org/
Like to get in touch? Email Esports Australia at info@esportsaustralia.org.au
