IEM Katowice has been one of the most prestigious tournaments in CS2‘s history, but unfortunately for the fans, IEM will be moving away from the fabled stadium to the Tauron Arena in Krakow in 2026.
Spodek Arena has been one of the liveliest in CS2 history, and it’s a real shame that it will no longer host IEM. However, the new arena will be big enough to build a thrilling atmosphere despite lacking the heritage that Spodek boasts.
“For almost two decades, Intel Extreme Masters has built a heritage full of emotional and defining moments in esports history. From the early days in Hannover to the rise of new legends in Katowice, every stop along the way has left its mark on our legacy,” said Michal Blicharz, VP Product.
“Today, as we begin a new chapter of this story, we look forward to continuing it with the world’s best gamers and esports fans, as they add new pages to it in Kraków, on a bigger scale than ever before,” the press release stated.
24 teams will compete in the six-team playoffs at IEM Krakow from February 6–8 with $1,200,000 on the line and the opportunity to perform in front of an audience at Tauron Arena. One of the teams will have the chance to be the first team to win the first IEM Kraków, which will mark the start of another legendary tournament.