UFL set to dominate Phygital Football at GOTF 2026

Following an action-packed competition last year, UFL returns to the Games of the Future 2026 as the official title for Phygital Football.

The football simulator will once again power the digital stage of phygital’s most-played discipline, where top clubs from around the world come together to play for a slice of the US$625,000 prize fund.

The competition will take place from 4-9 August at the Athletics Sports Complex “Qazaqstan” in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Every match kicks off inside UFL before players sprint onto the pitch for a live 5v5 football clash. Scores from both stages are combined, meaning every goal, tackle, counterattack and last-minute save can change everything. To win, teams need sharp reactions, smart tactics and the ability to perform equally well both on-screen and on the field.

Some of the world’s top clubs have already locked in their spots. CD Holcattes from Guatemala, Peñarol from Uruguay and Orlando Pirates from South Africa will all head to Astana, alongside 2025 champions Mexico Quetzales Armadillos FC, who return to defend their crown. More teams will qualify via Phygital Contenders Astana 2026 this June.

UFL joins an exciting lineup of titles already confirmed for GOTF 2026, including 3on3 Freestyle, Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2 and more, setting the stage for another unforgettable summer of phygital sport and esports.

Games of the Future 2026 will feature eight disciplines from 29 July-9 August in Astana, bringing together more than 900 participants from over 50 nationalies. Packed arenas, huge crowds and millions of viewers worldwide are expected as fans get ready for one of the biggest celebrations of phygital sport yet.

For more team reveals, new game publishers, ticket sales and broadcast announcements, make sure to stay up to date via the official websites of Phygital International and the / as well as official social media channels @gamesofthefutureofficial.

Want more phygital action? You can watch highlights from GOTF 2025 on Phygital+, Phygital International’s official platform.
For media who want to attend, information about accreditation and links to relevant forms can be found in our Media Center.