How IEM Cologne Influenced the Redistribution
The decision is directly related to IEM Cologne 2026 receiving major status, where all prize money and fund distribution are determined by Valve. As a result, the Club Reward, which ESL traditionally includes in its events, was excluded from Cologne.
To meet the annual club payment quota (a total of $3.8 million across seven tournaments), the organizers reallocated $250,000 from the Cologne budget in favor of IEM China — the season's final event. This movement of funds not only strengthened the status of the Chinese tournament but also marked a sign of trust in the growing Asian esports market.
All Details and Prizes
Now the total prize amount for IEM China 2026 is $1.25 million, with $950,000 allocated for club rewards, and the rest for the standard prize pool. The tournament will take place from November 2 to 8, 2026, and will gather 16 of the world's top teams.
The fund distribution is as follows:
- 1st place — $125,000 prize + $235,000 club bonus
- 2nd place — $50,000 + $160,000
- 3rd place — $30,000 + $130,000
- 4th place — $20,000 + $100,000
- 5th–6th places — $12,500 + $75,000
- 7th–8th places — $7,000 + $47,500
- 9th–12th places — $5,000 + $20,000
- 13th–16th places — $4,000 without a club bonus
Thus, the total Club Reward increased by $250,000, and the prize pool matched the year's major events.
This move by ESL underscores the company's efforts to balance prize money across regions and strengthen its presence in the Chinese market. The increased fund for IEM China turns the November tournament into one of the key events of 2026, where top teams from around the world will compete for victory.
