The PUBG Mobile Super League Central and South Asia (PMSL CSA) Fall 2025 has officially been moved online, with organisers citing safety concerns in Nepal as the reason behind the change.

Originally set to take place offline in Kathmandu from 18 to 28 September, the tournament will now be played entirely online. This decision follows the recent wave of youth-led demonstrations in Nepal, widely referred to as the Gen Z protests, which erupted over corruption, nepotism, and a now-repealed social media ban.

The situation escalated quickly after protests began on 8 September. According to Reuters, at least 51 people have lost their lives and hundreds more have been injured. The political turmoil also saw Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and several cabinet ministers step down on 9 September. Negotiations are ongoing between protest leaders, the army, and the President of Nepal to form an interim government.

In a statement, PUBG Mobile Esports said the decision was made after “careful evaluation and considering recent developments in the region,” stressing that the safety and well-being of players and staff remain the top priority. Organisers also reaffirmed their commitment to delivering a fair and competitive tournament experience, even in the online format.

Tournament schedule and stakes

Despite the shift to online play, the PMSL CSA Fall 2025 will go ahead as planned with a $200,000 prize pool and three coveted qualification spots for the PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC) 2025.

The Group Stage is scheduled from 18 to 24 September, where 20 teams will battle it out remotely. The top 16 teams will then advance to the Grand Finals, taking place from 26 to 28 September.

While moving online ensures the tournament can proceed safely, it raises potential challenges around ping and network stability, which could impact competitive integrity. However, organisers have assured fans and players that they will maintain the highest standards of professionalism.

The PMGC 2025 will be hosted in Thailand across November and December as part of the larger PUBG United event, where the best teams from around the globe will face off.

With high stakes on the line and a turbulent backdrop in Nepal, the PMSL CSA Fall 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most watched tournaments of the year.