Can esports players use their own equipment?
Officials' detail · During play · 1 of 1Organisers provide computers, monitors and noise-cancelling headsets; players bring their own keyboard, mouse, mouse pad and in-ear headphones, all checked and refused if they give an advantage. Phones, smartwatches and other devices stay outside the gaming area. Match computers have no internet, and no food or headwear is allowed on stage.
How it works
- Provided: computers, monitors, headsets.
- Players bring: keyboard, mouse, mouse pad, in-ear headphones.
- Inspection: any device may be refused or inspected.
- No macros: mouse macros are banned in PUBG.
- No devices: phones, smartwatches, removable media.
- No internet: on match computers.
- Area: no food, smoking or vaping; drinks in closed cups below the table.
- Clothing: team jersey, long trousers, closed shoes, no headwear.
The glossary has the peripherals, the setup time, the cheating (esports), the information abuse, the fines (esports) and the team (esports).
Tricky cases
Can a player use a medical device on stage?
Yes, with the organisers' approval first.
Can a player plug in a USB drive?
Not without the officials checking and allowing it.
Can a player wear a cap for religious reasons?
Possibly. Exceptions must be requested 48 hours before.
Can a team show its national flag on its kit?
No. Flags and country identifiers are not allowed.
Why the rule exists
Standard computers stop any player gaining a hardware edge. Banning devices and internet blocks outside help.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| VALORANT | Players' own peripherals | V 8.1 |
| PUBG | Provided voice system only | P 8.2 |
| Clothing breaches | At least a 250 US dollar fine | G 5.1.18 |
From the rule book
Esports World Cup Foundation, Esports World Cup 2026 Global Rulebook, sections 5.1.18 and 5.1.23, with the EWC 2026 VALORANT and PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS rule books: VALORANT, section 8; PUBG, sections 5.4.1.3, 5.4.2.13 and 8. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the Esports World Cup 2026 rule books.