Games of the Future 2026 powered by Samruk-Kazyna drew to a close on Sunday, marking the end of 12 days of elite competition in Astana, Kazakhstan.
From 29 July to 9 August, more than 800 participants – representing over 50 nationalities – competed across eight disciplines and four venues for a share of more than US$4 million in prize money.
The event is estimated to have earned around 453 million broadcast views up to 8 August. It is on track to outstrip the Games of the Future 2025’s record of 461 million views once all broadcast partners have submitted their final figures and Ipsos publishes its independent report.
Games of the Future Astana 2026 was distributed through 265 outlets, comprising 56 media rights partners, 205 community streamers and four owned channels. Through this network, the GOTF 2026 is expected to have reached approximately 150 countries and territories, with live coverage in more than 16 languages.
From established international organizations to emerging clubs and talent, the tournament also reflected the growing depth and quality of the global phygital ecosystem.
The eight newly crowned champions hailed from countries as far afield as Argentina, Indonesia, Armenia and Peru, emphasizing the international appeal of the Games of the Future (GOTF) brand, particularly to younger generations.
The new Games of the Future Astana 2026 champions are:
- Battle Royale PUBG: Battlegrounds presented by Alatau City Bank: 17 Gaming
- Phygital Basketball presented by Halyk Fund: Wilders
- MOBA PC Dota 2 presented by CenterCredit: PlayTime
- Phygital Dancing presented by Solidcore Resources: Franco Vitali
- Phygital Shooter CS2 presented by Yandex Go: Team KZ
- Phygital Fighting presented by Kazzinc: Archangel Michael
- Phygital Football UFL presented by Samruk-Kazyna: NS Team
- MOBA Mobile MLBB presented by Freedom: Bigetron by Vitality
Outside the competition, the tournament welcomed ministers, senior officials and delegates from more than 60 countries, alongside representatives of the United Nations, National Olympic Committees and other international organizations. There were delegations from markets including the United States and Malaysia – creating opportunities for conversations around the future development of phygital sport.
“The Games of the Future Astana 2026 has shown the world what makes phygital sport so exciting. We have seen extraordinary athletes and clubs compete, passionate fans fill the venues, and audiences around the world embrace a new kind of experience that reflects the future of sport. Astana represents another important step forward for a global movement that continues to grow in ambition, reach and relevance. I want to thank the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan, our Local Organizing Committee, and every athlete, club, partner, volunteer and fan who made this possible. We leave Kazakhstan inspired by what we have achieved together and excited about where phygital sport goes next.” – Daniel Merkley, CEO, Phygital International
To relive standout performances and memorable moments from the tournament, visit Phygital+, the official Games of the Future streaming platform. Stay up-to-date with all the latest phygital developments via the website and social media channels such as Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.
