Hero Esports, previously known as VSPO, has revealed plans for the upcoming second edition of the Asian Champions League (ACL) in Shanghai, scheduled to take place from May 1 to May 24. The 2026 tournament will showcase Dota 2, Counter-Strike 2, and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, boasting a total prize pool of $365K. Moreover, this event will serve as a gateway to the 2026 Esports World Cup (EWC) for all three featured games.
In the realm of Dota 2, the ACL offline playoffs are set for May 1-3, offering a prize pool of $90K and one direct slot for EWC. Four Chinese teams—XG, YG, VG, and Refuser—will be in contention. Notably, if XG secures victory in the ACL tournament and has already qualified for EWC, the runner-up will claim the direct slot.
As for the CS2 competition, a prize pool of $150K is up for grabs along with one qualifying spot for EWC.
Within the MLBB category, teams hailing from China, Japan, South Korea, and Mongolia will vie for a $125K prize pool. The tournament will grant one direct slot to EWC MLBB competition as well as three wildcard entries.
On the business front, renowned gaming chair brand AutoFull and hardware brand ZOWIE have inked strategic partnerships with ACL to supply top-tier esports furniture and equipment for the event. Additionally, Jin Jiang International Group will maintain its collaboration with ACL to oversee player and team logistics, covering aspects such as accommodation, transportation, shuttle services, and catering.