StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 Confirmed

StarLadder is poised to make history by hosting its inaugural Counter-Strike 2 Major, the StarLadder Budapest Major, scheduled for late 2025. This highly anticipated tournament will take place in Budapest, Hungary, and promises to elevate the competitive gaming landscape significantly.
Tournament Overview
The StarLadder Budapest Major will occur from November 24 to December 14, 2025, prominently featuring a staggering prize pool of $1.25 million. It will showcase the world’s elite teams battling for supremacy in one of the industry’s most prestigious events.
Event Structure
The tournament will unfold across four well-structured stages:
- Stage 1: November 24-27 at MTK Sportpark
- Stage 2: November 29 – December 2 at MTK Sportpark
- Stage 3: December 4-7 at MTK Sportpark
- Playoffs: December 11-14 at the MVM Dome
The first three stages will utilize a 16-team Swiss System format, leading to intense competition as the top eight teams advance to the playoffs. Matches in the initial stages will consist of a blend of elimination and advancement contests, with critical matches being best-of-three, while others will be single-elimination.
In a decisive shift from previous tournaments, the playoffs will follow a single-elimination format, with all matches, including the Grand Finals, configured as best-of-three, enhancing the stakes for participants and viewers alike.
Venue Highlights
The MVM Dome, equipped with a 360-degree stage setup and a capacity of 20,000, will serve as an exceptional venue for the playoffs. This infrastructure magnifies the atmosphere and engagement possibilities for both in-person attendees and online participants globally.
Leadership Vision
StarLadder CEO Roman Romantsov expressed his excitement, stating, “Hosting another Major is an incredible honour, and we’re determined to make it unforgettable. Budapest provides the ideal backdrop to innovate what a live CS2 event can look and feel like. From day one to the Grand Finals, we aim to create an experience that fans will cherish, both in the arena and online.”
A Milestone for StarLadder
The Budapest Major marks StarLadder’s return to hosting a Counter-Strike Major since the StarLadder Berlin Major in 2019. This transition indicates a strategic re-engagement with the global eSports community, focusing on delivering top-tier entertainment and competition.
Conclusion
The StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 is set to be a landmark event within the competitive gaming sphere. With a robust structure, a significant prize pool, and a commitment to an unforgettable experience, StarLadder is prepared to raise the bar for future eSports tournaments, drawing fans from all corners of the globe to witness this defining moment in Counter-Strike history. Get ready to be part of eSports history this winter!