Europe Secures Additional Slot for IEM Cologne Major 2026

The Major in Budapest was decisive for forming the slots for the next cycle. It was at this tournament that teams fought not only for their results but also for the opportunity to bring more representatives to the next major.

Details and Impact on Teams

According to the updated invitation system, the European region will receive 17 slots at the IEM Cologne Major 2026—one more team than before. America ( North and South ) retains its 10 positions, while Asia will be represented by only five teams—one less slot compared to the current cycle.

Equally important is how the distribution of direct invites to the next stage of major tournaments will proceed. In the third, decisive stage of the current championship, eight lucky teams will be determined to enter Stage 3 of the next major directly.

The decision to redistribute slots is crucial for the future of global Counter-Strike championships. The ability of a region to send more or fewer teams directly affects media coverage, investment flows, and the development of local esports infrastructure. For Europe , this is an additional chance to solidify its status as a leading force in the discipline. For Asia, the situation serves as a warning signal and a reason for thorough analysis, while America demonstrates stability and potential for growth.