ESL FACEIT Group, a global leader in esports and entertainment, has revealed that Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) will relocate from Katowice to Kraków, Poland, for IEM Kraków 2026. Scheduled for February 6–8, 2026, at Tauron Arena, this event marks a pivotal moment in the 19-year history of IEM, which began in Hannover, Germany, in 2006.
Event Highlights
IEM Kraków 2026 will feature 24 top CS2 teams competing for a $1,250,000 prize pool and one of esports’ most coveted trophies. The tournament kicks off on January 27, 2026, with qualifiers for six playoff spots, culminating in three days of live action at Tauron Arena. The arena, one of Poland’s largest, promises an enhanced spectator experience with cutting-edge technology and immersive production.
- Date: February 6–8, 2026
- Venue: Tauron Arena, Kraków, Poland
- Prize Pool: $1,250,000
- Teams: 24 CS2 teams
Key Dates
- January 27, 2026: Qualifiers begin for six playoff spots.
- February 6–8, 2026: Live playoff matches at Tauron Arena.
- May 30–June 2, 2025: IEM trophy on display at Galeria Krakowska.
- June 8, 2025: Trophy showcased at Kraków City Hall open house, available for two weeks.
Why Kraków?
The move to Kraków reflects ESL’s ambition to elevate the ESL Pro Tour Championship by hosting it in larger, world-class venues. Tauron Arena will accommodate more fans than previous IEM venues, delivering a next-level experience. A multi-year partnership with Kraków aims to establish IEM as a recurring fixture, cementing the city’s role as a European esports hub.
Kraków Mayor Aleksander Miszalski stated:
“Kraków blends royal heritage with innovation. IEM Kraków 2026 offers a global stage to showcase our city as a prime destination for business, tourism, and investment.”
Fan Engagement
To build excitement, the IEM trophy will be displayed at Galeria Krakowska from May 30 to June 2, 2025, and at Kraków City Hall on June 8, 2025, during an open house, remaining on view for two weeks. These events aim to connect fans with IEM’s legacy ahead of the tournament.
Tournament Significance
As the oldest professional esports tournament, IEM continues to set the standard for competitive CS2. The $1,250,000 prize pool and prestigious trophy make IEM Kraków 2026 a must-watch event. With 24 teams battling for playoff spots, fans can expect intense matches and unforgettable moments.
Broader Impact
Relocating IEM to Kraków underscores ESL FACEIT Group’s commitment to expanding esports’ global reach. Kraków’s cultural heritage and modern infrastructure position it to become a new esports epicenter, driving tourism and economic growth. The event will also leverage improved facilities to enhance the experience for players and spectators alike.
Community Context
The announcement follows recent CS2 developments, including Valve’s “Capture the Moment” update and the upcoming BLAST.tv Austin Major on June 3, 2025. Earlier this year, over 1,000 teams registered for the IEM Dallas 2025 EU Open Qualifier, highlighting the growing competitive scene.
IEM Kraków 2026 promises to deliver world-class competition and a transformative fan experience, solidifying Kraków’s place on the global esports stage.
