IESF says it has cleared all debts and signed 2027 World Esports Championship host deal

The International Esports Federation (IESF) said on August 26, 2026, in Busan, Korea, that it has settled all outstanding financial obligations and is now operating on a “financially stable foundation” following elections held in December 2025.

According to the federation, the newly elected Board and leadership have focused on “creating greater stability,” strengthening operations, and setting priorities for the coming years. IESF President Vlad Marinescu said: “IESF is back, debt-free, focused and ready for the future. We faced our challenges directly, took responsibility and honored every obligation. That work was not always easy, but it was necessary, and today IESF stands on solid ground.”

IESF also said it has signed a hosting agreement to bring the World Esports Championship to Astana in 2027. The federation positioned the event as a key milestone in its forward calendar and its work with member national federations.

Separately, IESF said it is continuing to develop the World Esports Summit (WES) as an industry dialogue platform, following what it described as a successful first edition held earlier this year. The federation said preparations are underway for the next edition but did not provide dates, location, or commercial details.

IESF was founded in 2008 and said it has 152 member federations across six continents.