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Top esports events turn Pudong into hot summer destination

english.pudong.gov.cn Updated:2026-09-04

The 15th DOTA2 International (TI 2026) concluded in Shanghai's Pudong New Area on Aug 23, with Team Spirit defeating Team Vision 3-2 in the Grand Final to lift the Aegis of Champions.

As 16 top teams battled it out in Shanghai from Aug 13 to 23, esports fans from around the world gathered in the city to watch the action and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

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Esports fans show off their merchandise. [Photo/WeChat ID: pdnews]

Beyond the arena, the tournament brought esports into the city's cultural and commercial spaces. A DOTA2 concert performed by the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra in July opened a dialogue between gaming culture and classical music, while themed displays and activities spread across Pudong and other parts of Shanghai, linking transport hubs, shopping malls, cultural venues and tourist attractions. 

Some shopping areas also offered special deals for ticket holders, encouraging visitors to explore more of the city through dining, shopping, leisure, night tours and cultural experiences.

Building on the momentum, Pudong is set to host the 2026 Valorant Champions Shanghai, with the finals scheduled for Oct 16-18 at the Mercedes-Benz Arena. 

The district is also upgrading its multilingual services, international payment options, tax-refund facilities and travel products, striving to turn short-term event traffic into longer stays and wider cultural and tourism consumption.