The 1win Essence I is an online Tier 2 Dota 2 tournament organized by BASED Esports, featuring teams primarily from Europe and the CIS region. It serves as a competitive mid-tier event that showcases rising and established teams, offering both prize money and valuable experience in the international Dota 2 scene. It runs from May 2 to May 11, 2026, bringing together 14 teams competing for a total $100,000 prize pool.

Tournament Format

Group Stage Phase 1 will be played in a two-round robin group of four teams each, with all matches best-of-three.

Group Stage Phase 2 will be played in a single-elimination bracket, with all matches best-of-three.

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