Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Esports is entering a historic new chapter. MOONTON Games has officially confirmed that the M8 World Championship Grand Finals will be hosted in Türkiye, marking the first time the iconic M Series will take place in Europe. Alongside this milestone, the M8 Wild Card tournament will debut in Thailand, making it the country’s first-ever M Series event.
The landmark announcement was revealed during the M7 World Championship Grand Finals, signaling MLBB’s bold expansion into new regions as the world’s most popular mobile esport continues its global rise.
M Series Expands to Europe for the First Time
Since its inception, the M Series has been a cornerstone of competitive mobile esports, with host cities traditionally located in Asia. The decision to bring the M8 World Championship Grand Finals to Istanbul, Türkiye, represents a major strategic leap—introducing MLBB Esports to European audiences on its biggest stage yet.
This move not only underscores MLBB’s growing international footprint, but also reinforces its ambition to become a truly global esport, connecting fans and players across continents.
Thailand to Host Its First-Ever M Series Event
In parallel with Europe’s debut, Thailand will host the M8 Wild Card tournament in 2027, marking the nation’s first M Series competition. The Wild Card stage plays a crucial role in the championship ecosystem, offering emerging regions a path to the World Championship while expanding competitive diversity.
With Southeast Asia already established as one of MLBB’s strongest regions, Thailand’s inclusion further strengthens the game’s grassroots and professional presence.
Cloud Zhang Announces a New Era for MLBB Esports
The announcement was delivered by Cloud Zhang, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MOONTON Games, making a rare public appearance at the M7 World Championship Grand Finals—an event that also coincided with MLBB’s 10th anniversary.
Reflecting on the scale of the moment, Zhang expressed his gratitude for all MLBB players, whose support has helped the game reach their current milestone.
Over the past ten years, MLBB has grown into one of the world’s top esports events, and it continues to reach new levels of player engagement and global impact. None of this would be possible without the love and support of our fans around the world.
MLBB’s Growing Global Presence in 2026 and Beyond
Beyond the M8 announcement, MOONTON Games also outlined MLBB Esports’ increasing presence on the global sporting stage. In 2026, MLBB will appear at major international events, including the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026, while also making its third appearance at the Esports World Cup (EWC).
These developments highlight MLBB’s continued evolution from a mobile game phenomenon into a globally recognized esports discipline.
A Historic Moment for the World’s Top Mobile Esport
With the M8 World Championship Grand Finals in Türkiye and the M8 Wild Card in Thailand, MLBB Esports is breaking new ground—bringing its flagship tournament to Europe for the first time while expanding opportunities for emerging regions.
As the M Series steps onto a new continent, one thing is clear: Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is no longer just a regional powerhouse—it’s a truly global esports giant.
