Jinan once again took center stage in China's esports scene, hosting the 2026 CrossFire (CF) Carnival and Summer Championship Finals from Aug 8 to 9. The event, held at Jinan Sunac International Arena in Shandong province, featured the finals of both the CrossFire Professional League (CFPL) and CrossFire Mobile League (CFML).

Marking the 18th anniversary of the popular first-person shooter game, the event brought together top teams, live performances, and interactive experiences for fans. It marked the third consecutive year that the CF professional league finals had been held in Jinan.

The CFPL Season 28 Summer Championship kicked off on Aug 8, with King Zone (KZ) facing BaiSha Gaming in the final. After a closely contested battle featuring intricate tactics and impressive individual performances, BaiSha Gaming defeated KZ 3-1 to claim the title.

The following day, the CFML Season 19 Summer Championship Final delivered another thrilling showdown. BaiSha Gaming, making its first appearance in a CFML final, defeated KZ 4-3 to secure its first CFML championship title.

Beyond the competition, the event also proved an economic boon for Jinan. Over the past three years, CF finals held in the city have attracted more than 13,000 spectators. This year's event alone drew over 5,000, about 90 percent of whom came from outside Jinan. Ticket sales exceeded 6 million yuan ($889,082), while related spending on accommodation, dining, transportation, and tourism surpassed 30 million yuan.

Jinan hosts the 2026 CrossFire Carnival and Summer Championship Finals from Aug 8 to 9. [Photo/Jinan Daily]