The Counter-Strike community is buzzing with excitement as BLAST announces its plans to host a $1.25 million ‘Counter-Strike 2’ Major in Austin, Texas. This event marks a significant return of the Counter-Strike Major to the United States, the first since 2018.
A Major Event in the Esports Calendar
The Return of the Major to the U.S.
For the first time since the ELEAGUE Major in 2018, a Counter-Strike Major will be held in the United States. The BLAST Austin Major is set to take place in June 2025, bringing the excitement of top-tier Counter-Strike 2 competition back to American soil.
Venue and Prize Pool
The Moody Center in Austin, Texas, will host the final stages of the competition. This state-of-the-art arena is expected to provide an electrifying atmosphere for both players and fans. The event will feature 24 teams competing for a $1.25 million prize pool, making it one of the most lucrative tournaments in the esports calendar.
Significance of the Event
The BLAST Austin Major is not just another tournament; it is a landmark event for several reasons. It will be the first Counter-Strike 2 Major in the U.S. and only the second Major hosted by BLAST, following their successful BLAST Paris 2023 event. This Major also coincides with the official transition to a fully open Counter-Strike ecosystem, as announced by BLAST.
Why Austin?
A Hub for Esports and Technology
Austin has been chosen as the host city for its vibrant tech scene and its growing reputation as a hub for esports. The city is seen as the perfect place to showcase the esports industry and the cutting-edge technology that drives it. This selection underscores Austin’s importance in the global esports landscape.
Fan Engagement
U.S. fans have already shown their enthusiasm for Counter-Strike 2. Earlier this month, a raucous crowd in Dallas cheered on G2 Esports as they lifted the IEM Dallas trophy, demonstrating the strong local support for esports events. This bodes well for the upcoming Major in Austin, promising an electric atmosphere.
The Road Ahead
Global Impact
The BLAST Austin Major is part of a broader strategy to globalize Counter-Strike 2. Later this year, the first CS Major in China will take place, further expanding the game’s reach. These events highlight the growing international appeal of Counter-Strike 2 and its potential to unite fans worldwide.
Qualification and Rankings
Starting in 2025, Valve’s global rankings will serve as the primary determinant for team qualifications for BLAST events. This new system aims to ensure that the best teams from around the world get the opportunity to compete, making the competition even more intense and exciting.
