More Than 1,000 Athletes Join Bangkok Esports 2026 The fourth annual esports festival brings fans together to compete in four popular games
Posted by July 19, 2026 in ACTIVITYTOURNAMENT
The Bangkok Esports 2026 tournament is underway for the fourth consecutive year. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, its Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and the Esports Association of Thailand have once again joined forces to create an event for esports fans from across the country.
The official opening ceremony took place on the afternoon of July 18 at Island Hall, 3rd Floor, Fashion Island shopping mall in Bangkok. Ms. Panida Kaewmak, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, presided over the ceremony. Attendees included Mr. Santi Lothong, President of the Esports Association of Thailand; Bangkok Metropolitan Administration executives; private-sector representatives; more than 1,000 athletes; and other guests.
Ms. Panida said Bangkok wants more children and young people to take part in sports and other beneficial activities. Esports has attracted strong interest among young people in Thailand and around the world, which is why the city has partnered with the Esports Association of Thailand for four years. She also noted the event’s clear production improvements each year, saying the Bangkok Esports competition venue meets high international standards.
Mr. Santi thanked the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration for its support, saying government backing is important to advancing Thai esports and creating opportunities for young people. The association has been scaling back some of its smaller community events to give young people more chances to attend major public-sector events, especially those organized by Bangkok. He added that the association is also supporting the Bangkok governor’s policy of encouraging young esports players to stay focused on their studies.
“We have been working with several schools in Bangkok to establish agreements that support young people,” he said. “If you missed registration this year, we hope you’ll join us next year. Many of the country’s professional players are competing here, making this a great benchmark for young people who are figuring out whether they want to pursue esports seriously.”
Bangkok Esports 2026 runs from July 18–19, 2026, with competitions in four games:
- Arena of Valor (RoV): Under-12, under-15, under-18, and open divisions
- Free Fire: Under-18 and open divisions
- FC Online: Under-18 and open divisions
- Street Fighter 6: Open division
The tournament offers a total prize pool of 336,000 baht. Admission is free at Island Hall, 3rd Floor, Fashion Island shopping mall in Bangkok. Matches will also be livestreamed on the Esports Association of Thailand’s Facebook page and YouTube channel (TESF).
