Slot Allocation for IEM Cologne Major 2026 Shifts in Favor of Europe

Specific Changes in Quotas

Based on the recorded results, we can understand the preliminary allocation of spots for the IEM Cologne Major, which will take place in June 2026 in Germany . Europe will receive 17 slots, the Americas 10, and Asia 5.

To elaborate further, Stage 1 will remain balanced: six spots each for Europe and the Americas, and four for Asia. In Stage 2, the balance will shift slightly: three slots will go to teams from the Americas, and five to Europe . In Stage 3, the allocation changes more significantly: Europe will get six spots, while the Americas and Asia will each receive one.

This redistribution resulted from performances at the StarLadder Budapest Major: six European teams reached the playoffs, strengthening the regional ranking. The only representatives from other continents in the decisive stage were  FURIA Esports  from the Americas and  The MongolZ  from Asia.

The change in quotas is not just a formality. It directly impacts the balance of power on the international stage and gives European teams more chances to solidify their advantage at the IEM Cologne Major. If the trend continues, we can expect another "European Major," where the playoff battle will once again center around the old continent.