In a significant development for the Indian mobile gaming landscape, PUBG Mobile Esports has officially announced an expansion of slots for Indian teams at the upcoming PUBG Mobile World Cup (PMWC) 2026. Scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from August 6 to August 16, 2026, the tournament will now feature two representative teams from India, doubling the nation’s presence compared to the previous year.
Two Slots for Indian Teams At PMWC 2026: Improving on Past International Performance
Historically, India’s participation in this elite global event was more restricted. During the 2025 edition, only a single slot was available, which was secured by Team AryanxTMG following their victory at BMPS 2025. While that team gained valuable experience, they finished in 22nd place, highlighting the steep competition on the international stage. The decision to grant a second slot reflects the growing caliber of the Indian competitive scene and provides a broader platform for local talent to test their skills against world-class opposition from regions like China, Southeast Asia, and Europe.
The Path to Qualification: BMPS 2026 and Beyond
Regarding the qualification process, PUBG Mobile Esports has confirmed that one of these coveted spots is reserved for the champion of the Battlegrounds Mobile Pro Series (BMPS) 2026. However, the exact criteria for the second slot remain a subject of speculation. It is currently unclear whether the additional invitation will be extended to the runner-up of BMPS 2026 or if it will be tied to the results of the Battlegrounds Mobile India Series (BGIS) 2026. Regardless of the specific pathway, the guaranteed second spot ensures that India will have a more formidable presence in Riyadh.
A Landmark Year for Indian Global Representation
Beyond the World Cup, the roadmap for 2026 looks exceptionally promising for the region. In addition to the PMWC spots, India has also been allocated three positions for the PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC) 2026. This brings the total number of international qualification opportunities for Indian squads to five across the calendar year.
This expansion is a clear indicator of the international community’s rising confidence in the Indian esports ecosystem.
As the stakes get higher, the pressure will be on domestic teams to perform in upcoming major tournaments. For fans and players alike, the 2026 season represents a massive opportunity to move beyond participation and firmly establish India as a dominant force in the global mobile esports hierarchy.
