Activision, Monster Energy Set Modern Warfare 4 Esports Debut

Activision and Monster Energy have announced the 2026 Monster Energy Launch Invitational, the first professional esports tournament for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4. The event is scheduled for Nov. 6-8, shortly after the game’s release on Oct. 23.

The tournament will begin competitive play for Modern Warfare 4, a new tactical shooter from Activision. The company has not disclosed the participating teams, competition format, prize pool or whether the matches will take place online or at a local-area network venue, where players compete in person.

Teams will have about two weeks to learn the game’s maps, weapons and gameplay systems before the tournament begins.

The 2025 Monster Energy Launch Invitational for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 provides a possible model for the 2026 event. It used an online double-elimination format, which allowed teams to remain in the competition after one loss. The tournament included Call of Duty League franchises and selected Challengers teams, offered a $75,000 prize pool and aired on Twitch and YouTube.

Activision has not confirmed whether the Modern Warfare 4 tournament will use the same format, prize pool, team selection process or broadcast platforms. Details about the brackets, participants, prize distribution and location are expected before the event.

Monster Energy also has sponsorship agreements with esports organizations. South Korean team Hanwha Life Esports renewed its deal with the brand for the 2026 season in March. In 2025, Monster Energy became the title partner of the StarLadder Budapest Major and the main sponsor of OpTic Gaming’s FCV Black Ops 7 tournament.

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