Hanoi (VNA) – The Grand Esports 2026 officially opened in Hanoi on July 9, marking a major milestone in the development of Vietnam's esports sector as the first nationwide esports event is directly guided and supported by State management agencies.
Held at the My Dinh Athletics Palace, the event is organised under the direction of the Sports Authority of Vietnam under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in coordination with the VTC Multimedia Corporation and relevant partners.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Hoang Dao Cuong said the event is a significant step towards building a more professional and officially recognised esports industry in Vietnam. He said the Government is committed to supporting emerging sports in the digital era in line with global development trends and international integration.
According to Cuong, Vietnamese esports has steadily strengthened its position through impressive performances at regional and international competitions. Esports is more than just a form of entertainment; it has emerged as a sport of the digital age and a new industry with tremendous potential.
"The Grand Esports 2026 will help establish an official mechanism to honour outstanding esports athletes, coaches, clubs, businesses and individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry's development," he said.
He also called for stronger cooperation from businesses, international partners and the esports community to build a professional and sustainable esports ecosystem in Vietnam. He encouraged athletes to compete with talent, determination and fair play while promoting the image of a dynamic, creative and globally integrated Vietnam.
The event brings together more than 1,000 players throughout the competition season. The final round, running from July 9 to 12, features more than 130 athletes and officials from 10 countries and territories, including Vietnam, the Republic of Korea, Japan, China, Türkiye and several Southeast Asian nations.
The event consists of four major activities: the Vietnam Esports National Cup (VENC), the Esports Grand Championship (EGC), the Grand Esports Festival and the Grand Esports Awards.
Director of the Sports Authority of Vietnam Nguyen Danh Hoang Viet said the event represents more than the organisation of a sporting competition, demonstrating that esports has entered a new stage of development and is increasingly recognised as an important part of Vietnam's national sports strategy, cultural industries and digital economy.
A highlight of the opening day is a forum on future development of esports in Vietnam.
The event will conclude with The Grand Esports Awards 2026 on July 11 evening, honouring outstanding athletes, coaches, clubs, businesses and individuals for their contributions to the growth of esports in Vietnam./.
Vietnam to host Esports Grand Championship for first time
The international tournament, endorsed by the Southeast Asian Esports Federation and recognised under Olympic-standard achievement criteria, will take place from July 9 to 12 at the My Dinh Athletics Palace in Hanoi as part of The Grand Esports 2026 series.
