Hero Esports to Stage Second Asian Champions League: Shanghai

Hero Esports has announced the return of the Asian Champions League (ACL) to Shanghai, scheduled to take place from May 1–24, 2026. The event serves as a significant regional qualifier, as all featured titles—Dota 2, Counter-Strike 2, and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang—offer direct pathways or berths to the 2026 Esports World Cup.

The tournament features a combined prize pool of $365,000, distributed across the three game titles. The Dota 2 competition includes a $90,000 prize pool and one direct qualification slot, while the Counter-Strike 2 segment offers $150,000 and a qualifying spot for the Esports World Cup. The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang tournament, which draws participants from China, Japan, South Korea, and Mongolia, features a $125,000 prize pool and awards one direct slot alongside three wildcard berths.

Commercial support for the event includes strategic partnerships with gaming chair manufacturer AutoFull and hardware provider ZOWIE, both of which will supply professional equipment. Additionally, Jin Jiang International Group will manage logistics, including team accommodation, transportation, and catering services. By integrating these competitive pathways with established commercial partnerships, the event reinforces its role as a key fixture in the Asian esports calendar.