Fortnite World Cup 2020 is cancelled, broadcasts to return for FNCS

Epic Games have finally revealed their esport roadmap and have stated that unfortunately will be no Fortnite World this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a series of tweets detailing their plans for Fortnite for the rest of the year the developer stated that: “Due to the limitations of cross-region online competition, there will not be a Fortnite World Cup in 2020."

They aren't giving up on the concept of a cross-region event though, however issues around high latency make doing one online unfeasible, but the hope to return to the format in the future. "We don’t know when a return to large, global, in-person events will be practical, but we’re hopeful to be able to put on some form of Fortnite World Cup in 2021," Epic says.

The lack of Fortnite World Cup, which was previously won by Kyle “Bugha” Giersdorf, will disappoint many but is understandable considering during the current global situation in its place Epic plan to host further tournaments with more support than has previously been seen.

Epic detailed in their plans to continue hosting the Fortnite Champion Series, weekly Cash Cups, and unannounced 3rd party events. The developer also states they plan to bring back official broadcasts for major events.

Epic hasn't been officially broadcasting their tournaments.  (Credit: Epic Games)

"Broadcasts - We've heard the feedback. We are bringing back official broadcasts starting with the FNCS Invitational this weekend!" The FNCS has run for three seasons, with viewers only able to follow the action from competitors' streams and unofficial broadcasts like the Practise Server, a practise (heh) that many feel has hurt Fortnite esports.

The FNCS returns this weekend with the Fortnite Championship Series Invitational which will feature a two-week qualifying period, before a series of Regional Finals. Players past and present will be invited to perform - a first for the competition. There will be over $2,000,000 in prize money up for grabs and a whole lot more exposure for the winner with the return of official broadcasts..