Intel Extreme Masters — one of the most iconic esports brands in the world — is entering a pivotal new chapter. ESL has announced the launch of a new flagship tournament, IEM Krakow, which will replace the legendary IEM Katowice on the ESL Pro Tour calendar starting in 2026. This decision marks the beginning of a new era for professional Counter-Strike, creating new opportunities for fans and players in the heart of Poland.
The Legacy of IEM Katowice
Since 2013, the city of Katowice has been synonymous with the highest level of CS:GO competition. Each year, the Spodek Arena drew thousands of fans who witnessed historic matches, legendary victories, and the rise of new stars. IEM Katowice was more than just a tournament — it became a pilgrimage site for Counter-Strike fans from around the world. ESL succeeded in creating a unique atmosphere filled with emotions, drama, and unforgettable stage moments.
IEM Krakow 2026: New Home, Bigger Stage
In 2026, ESL begins a new chapter with IEM Krakow. The tournament will take place from January 27 to February 8, with the playoffs held live at Tauron Arena from February 6 to 8. According to Michal Blicharz, VP of Product Development at ESL FACEIT Group, the move is meant to take the event to the next level:
“We are starting a new chapter with the world’s best players and fans, adding new pages to IEM’s story — this time in Krakow.”
Krakow will become the permanent home of one of ESL Pro Tour’s two Championship-level events (alongside IEM Cologne), thanks to a multi-year agreement between the city and the tournament organizers. Tauron Arena offers increased capacity and improved conditions for attendees. Aleksander Miszalski, Mayor of Krakow, emphasized that the event is a great opportunity to showcase the city to a global audience as a center of innovation, business, and tourism.
The tournament will feature 24 teams competing for a $1,200,000 prize pool. The top six teams will advance to the live playoffs at Tauron Arena. Beginning May 30, the IEM Krakow trophy will be displayed at Galeria Krakowska, and from June 8, it will be available for public viewing at Kraków City Hall, where it will remain for two weeks.
A Legend’s Reaction
Among the many emotional reactions to the end of the IEM Katowice era, one that stood out came from kennyS, a CS icon who has graced the Spodek stage multiple times:
“Katowice is history, I feel like it’s the good timing to move on to something else. Truly a legendary city and arena that will forever remain in every CS’ fan’s memories. One of my deepest regrets is reaching the final in an empty arena.”
His words underscore how special the venue was to players and how heartbreaking it was to compete in a grand final without a live audience — a consequence of the pandemic.
Another touching tribute came from Finnish veteran allu, who experienced both highs and lows at the event:
“Many many good memories from this tournament. Also some bittersweet ones (3x 2nd). Will be in memories for life but for sjure Krakow will be as or even more LEGENDARY!!”
His message reflects the emotional weight IEM Katowice holds for competitors — a place of triumphs, near misses, and unforgettable experiences. Yet like many others, he looks ahead with excitement to what Krakow has to offer.
From Katowice to Krakow: Legacy Reimagined
The move from Katowice to Krakow is not a farewell but a natural evolution of one of Counter-Strike’s most prestigious tournament series. ESL aims to expand the scale of the event, make it more accessible to fans, and align it with the modern demands of the esports scene.
IEM Krakow is poised to carry on the legacy of IEM Katowice while offering a fresh stage for glory, surprises, and unforgettable moments. Starting in 2026, Krakow will become the new capital of global Counter-Strike.
Source: hltv.org
