Key Takeaways
- Esports will debut as an official medal competition at Gay Games Valencia 2026 from June 27 to July 4.
- Players will compete in Overwatch and EA Sports FC 26, with individual and team brackets.
- The esports events will have an open format with no gender divisions, allowing participants to register for one or both titles.
- Registration costs $215 with additional fees; discounts apply for Valencia residents and Spanish citizens.
- The inclusion of esports enhances the variety of competitions alongside other sports and cultural events at the Gay Games.
Esports will debut at the Gay Games Valencia 2026 as an official medal competition. The announcement was made on February 25, 2026. The event will take place in Valencia, Spain, from June 27 to July 4, 2026.
Competitive gaming will be included alongside 39 other sports. This marks the first time esports will award medals at the Gay Games.
Tournament Titles and Format
Two game titles have been confirmed. Players will compete in Overwatch and EA Sports FC 26. Both games will feature individual brackets. Team tournaments will also be organised.
The competitions will follow an open format. There will be no gender divisions in the esports events. Participants may register for one or both titles.
The esports programme is being delivered in partnership with Open World Now. Open World Now is a Spanish gaming and esports festival.
Registration and Event Details
Registration costs $215. An additional $35 sports fee applies. Residents of Valencia receive a 15% discount. Spanish citizens qualify for a 10% discount.
The Gay Games were founded in 1982. The event promotes inclusion through sport and culture. Participation is open to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation.
Other sports scheduled for Valencia 2026 include basketball, tennis, padel, and chess. Cultural activities will also take place during the week. These include film-related programming and other artistic events.
The inclusion of esports expands the range of competitions at the 2026 edition in Valencia.
Source: https://esportsinsider.com/2026/02/gay-games-valencia-2026-esports-addition
