From the announcement:
The road to the World Championships begins here. Many disease control teams will begin this journey but, in the end, only the best will survive. Z-Man Games is excited to announce that the 2018 season of Pandemic Survival is underway!
Throughout the season, teams of two will have the opportunity to test their Pandemic skills in a thrilling competition unlike any other. Join in and experience a completely new way to play Pandemic! Events are currently being scheduled at local game stores and gaming conventions across the globe and more will be added as the year rolls on.
Source