The Esports Federation of India (ESFI) has begun the process of selecting India’s official esports squad for the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi–Nagoya, Japan. Through the National Esports Championships (NESC 2026), players will compete across 10 game titles, with winners representing India in esports’ second full-fledged medal event.
On February 21, 2026, the Esports Federation of India (ESFI) officially opened registrations for the National Esports Championships 2026 (NESC 2026). This national-level qualification tournament will determine India’s contingent for the Asian Games 2026, scheduled from September 19 to October 4 in Japan.
India will compete across 10 video game titles, including Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, The King of Fighters XV, and Pokémon Unite, among others confirmed under the Asian Games Esports Program. Registrations will remain open until March 7, 2026, with matches serving as the official pathway to the Games.
This marks the second time esports will feature as a medal event at the Asian Games, following its debut in Hangzhou in 2023. ESFI officials emphasized that the selection process will ensure fair representation and competitive integrity, giving India’s top esports athletes a chance to shine on the continental stage.
Major Takeaways
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ESFI launched NESC 2026 to select India’s Asian Games squad
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Registrations open from February 21 to March 7, 2026
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India to compete across 10 esports titles including Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, and Pokémon Unite
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Asian Games 2026 scheduled in Aichi–Nagoya, Japan (Sept 19–Oct 4)
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Esports to feature as a full-fledged medal event for the second time
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Selection process aims at fair representation and competitive integrity
Conclusion
The launch of NESC 2026 signals India’s growing commitment to esports as a competitive discipline. With Asian Games 2026 offering a global platform, the ESFI’s structured selection process ensures that India’s best talent will represent the nation, strengthening its presence in the rapidly evolving esports ecosystem.
Sources: InsideSport, UNI News, NewsDrum