A new era begins for Intel Extreme Masters as the iconic tournament shifts from Katowice to Kraków for its 2026 edition. The TAURON Arena Kraków will become the global battleground for the world’s elite Counter-Strike 2 teams. For the first time, this state-of-the-art venue will host the race for the prestigious EPT Winter Championship title, the coveted ESL Grand Slam, and a share of the impressive $1,000,000 prize pool. With its fresh location and high stakes, IEM Kraków 2026 is set to redefine competitive excellence and elevate the CS2 legacy to new heights.

Tournament Format

Play-In will be played in a double-elimination bracket; all matches are in a best-of-three series.

Group Stage will be played in a Two-Double elimination GSL format; each group has eight teams, with best-of-three series.

Playoffs will be played in a single-elimination bracket; all matches are best-of-three except the Grand Finals, which is a best-of-five series.