Understanding CS2 Major Championships
Counter-Strike 2 Majors represent the pinnacle of competitive play. These Valve-sponsored events bring together the world's best teams, competing for prize pools exceeding one million dollars and the coveted Major championship title. The transition from CS:GO to CS2 has elevated the competitive scene, introducing new mechanics and strategies that continue to reshape professional play.
Major tournaments follow a structured qualification system. Regional Minor Championships, now known as Regional Major Rankings (RMR) events, determine which teams earn their spots at the main event. This system ensures competitive integrity while giving emerging talents opportunities to prove themselves against established organizations.
Copenhagen Major 2026: Tournament Preview
Copenhagen Major 2026
- Date: February 15 - March 2, 2026
- Location: Royal Arena, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Prize Pool: $1,250,000
- Teams: 24 qualified teams
- Format: Swiss System into Playoffs
The Copenhagen Major marks another chapter in Denmark's rich esports history. Following successful events in Cologne and Paris, the tournament organizers have promised an unprecedented spectacle. The Royal Arena, with its capacity of 16,000 spectators, will provide an electrifying atmosphere for the championship rounds.
Qualified Teams and Favorites
Based on RMR standings and recent performance, several teams enter as strong contenders:
FaZe Clan
Current world number one with consistent tournament victories. Their experienced roster makes them the favorite heading into Copenhagen.
G2 Esports
The international roster has shown remarkable form, with NiKo leading the charge as one of the tournament's most dangerous players.
Team Vitality
The French powerhouse continues their dominance with ZywOo delivering MVP-caliber performances consistently.
NAVI
Despite roster changes, NAVI remains a formidable force with strong tactical depth and individual skill.
IEM Katowice 2026
Intel Extreme Masters Katowice holds a special place in Counter-Strike history. The Spodek Arena in Poland has hosted legendary moments, and this year's event promises to continue that tradition. With a $1,000,000 prize pool, sixteen of the world's best teams will compete in the iconic venue.
IEM Katowice Quick Facts
- Date: January 24 - February 2, 2026
- Venue: Spodek Arena, Katowice, Poland
- Format: GSL Groups into Single Elimination Playoffs
- Broadcast: Available on Twitch, YouTube, and HLTV
The Polish crowd's passionate support creates an atmosphere unlike any other in esports. Teams often speak of the energy inside Spodek as a decisive factor, with the roaring audience capable of swinging momentum in crucial rounds.
BLAST Premier Circuit
Beyond Valve Majors, the BLAST Premier circuit represents the highest tier of non-Major competition. The circuit spans multiple events throughout the year, culminating in the World Final where teams compete for substantial prize pools and crucial ranking points.
2026 BLAST Schedule
How to Watch Major Tournaments
CS2 tournaments are accessible through multiple platforms, ensuring fans worldwide can follow the action:
- Twitch: Primary streaming platform with interactive features and chat
- YouTube Gaming: High-quality streams with DVR functionality
- HLTV: Dedicated esports platform with statistics and GOTV links
- In-Game: Watch directly through CS2's spectator system
For the most immersive experience, we recommend watching through CS2's built-in GOTV system, which allows free camera movement and access to player perspectives. External platforms like HLTV.org provide comprehensive statistics, live scores, and detailed match analysis.