Valve Unveils New Format for The International 2025

Valve has officially unveiled the format for The International 2025, which has undergone significant changes. This year, the organizers focused on ensuring that every game matters and that viewers can easily follow the tournament's progress.

The main stage of the tournament will begin with a Swiss-system bracket, where 16 teams will play Bo3 series against opponents with similar results. Teams that achieve 4 wins will secure a spot at The International, while those that suffer 4 losses will be eliminated from the tournament. After five rounds, three teams will guarantee their place in the main part of the championship, three more will conclude their participation, and the remaining 10 teams will compete in a decisive round for the last five slots. The road to The International will take place from September 4 to 7.

The International 2025 kicks off on September 11 and will last four days, with the grand final taking place on September 14. The tournament will be held at the Barclays Arena, featuring 8 teams that have qualified.

The format of the main stage will remain traditional – a double-elimination playoff. All matches, except for the grand final, will be played in a Bo3 format, while the final series will be a Bo5.

Ticket sales will start on April 15 at 10:00 AM CET on the AXS website. Valve emphasized that they have learned from past mistakes and have strived to create the most convenient schedule system possible for both viewers and participants.