Intel® Extreme Masters Kraków is set to welcome esports enthusiasts and top-tier players from across the globe to TAURON Arena Kraków from 6 to 8 February 2026. For the first time in its illustrious history, Intel® Extreme Masters (IEM) – the world’s longest-running esports tournament – will make the historic move from Katowice to Kraków, bringing the excitement of world-class esports to a new Polish city.
The competitive action kicks off on 27 January 2026, as 24 of the world’s finest Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) teams face off for just six coveted places in the tournament’s Playoff Stage. With a prize pool totalling $1,250,000 USD and one of esports’ most iconic trophies at stake, IEM Kraków promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans while honouring its prestigious legacy.
“Kraków is a city proud of its royal history, but simultaneously open to the future and innovation. The global reach of Intel Extreme Masters Kraków is a chance to present Kraków to new audiences as an ideal destination for business, tourism, and investmen,” stated Aleksander Miszalski, Mayor of Kraków.
“For almost two decades, Intel Extreme Masters has built a heritage full of emotional and defining moments in esports history. From the early days in Hannover to the rise of new legends in Katowice, every stop along the way has left its mark on our legacy,” said Michal Blicharz, VP Product Development at ESL FACEIT Group. “Today, as we begin a new chapter of this story, we look forward to continuing it with the world’s best gamers and esports fans, as they add new pages to it in Kraków, on a bigger scale than ever before.”
Visitors in Kraków will have a rare opportunity to view the legendary IEM trophy up close. From 30 May to 2 June, it will be on public display at Galeria Krakowska, followed by an appearance at Kraków City Hall on 8 June during an open day. The trophy will remain on show at City Hall for a further two weeks.
Discover more: IEM Kraków 2026
IEM Kraków 2026 Announcement Trailer
source: press release
