The Insomnia Gaming Festival, once the UK’s premier gaming and esports event, has hinted at a potential return in 2026. A teaser posted to social media suggested the event would be coming back, after it shut down in 2024 following a number of issues.

This development follows a tumultuous period for the festival’s organizer, Player1 Events. In 2024, the company faced significant financial challenges, including entering a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) to address debts reportedly exceeding £8 million.

Despite efforts to restructure, the CVA was rejected by creditors, leading Player1 Events to initiate a Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidation (CVL) process. The financial strain resulted in mass redundancies and left many contractors unpaid, casting doubt on the festival’s future.

The teaser’s timing points to a revival of the event, which has historically been held at the NEC in Birmingham. Known for its extensive LAN parties, esports tournaments, and diverse gaming experiences, Insomnia has been a cornerstone of the UK’s gaming culture for 25 years.

Past events have attracted over 30,000 attendees, featuring competitions in titles like VALORANT, Overwatch 2, and Call of Duty, as well as unique offerings such as trading card game tournaments and cosplay showcases.

While the teaser has reignited enthusiasm among fans and industry stakeholders, questions remain about the festival’s organizational structure and financial backing. As of now, no official statements have been released regarding the management of the anticipated 2026 event or how (or indeed if) previous financial obligations will be addressed.

The potential return of Insomnia Gaming Festival in 2026 could signify a resurgence in the UK’s gaming event scene, offering renewed opportunities for community engagement and industry collaboration.