Counter-Strike fans, mark your calendars. ESL Pro League Season 24 Finals are heading back to Katowice’s iconic Spodek Arena on October 9-11, 2026, bringing live arena action back to the world’s biggest Counter-Strike league for the first time since 2019.
This isn’t just another tournament announcement. We’re talking about the return of live arena playoffs after seven years of primarily online formats. The last time ESL Pro League had an arena finale was in Odense, Denmark, back in 2019.
What Makes This Special
Here’s the thing – Spodek Arena isn’t just any venue. It’s where Counter-Strike history gets written. The arena has hosted countless legendary moments and represents where competitive Counter-Strike truly reached new heights globally.
The full Season 24 runs from September 24 to October 11, 2026, with teams battling for their share of $1,000,000 in total winnings and the coveted ESL Pro League trophy. What this really means is we’re getting both the extended league format and the explosive arena finale.
The Katowice Connection
Katowice and ESL have serious history together. The city has embraced esports culture completely, making Spodek Arena feel like the natural home for major Counter-Strike events. The partnership between ESL FACEIT Group and Katowice extends beyond just this event – they’re looking at a longer-term collaboration.
Previous ESL Pro League arena destinations included Montpellier, Dallas, and São Paulo, but Katowice brings something different. It’s got that authentic Counter-Strike atmosphere that players and fans recognize instantly.
Looking Ahead
Ticket details aren’t available yet, but ESL promises more information soon. For thousands of fans who’ve been waiting to experience ESL Pro League live, this represents the perfect storm – top-tier Counter-Strike 2 action in one of esports’ most legendary venues.
The move signals ESL’s commitment to bringing back that live tournament energy. Esports hits differently when you experience it live in person, and October 2026 can’t come fast enough.