Esports match organiser ESL has introduced {that a} Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) Intel Excessive Masters (IEM) occasion will return to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2026.
Along with the return of IEM Rio 2026, the match organiser has introduced a partnership with the State of Rio de Janeiro and the Rio de Janeiro Esports Federation (FERJEE).
Happening from April thirteenth to nineteenth, IEM Rio 2026 marks the primary time in two years {that a} Tier 1 Counter-Strike 2 occasion has taken place in Brazil. The final version of IEM Rio came about in 2022, with NAVI rising victorious.
16 groups from the world over will compete within the Brazilian metropolis for an opportunity to win a share of $1m (~£747,410) in winnings. IEM Rio 2026 may even progress within the ESL Grand Slam race and Valve Regional Standings (VRS) factors.
“Brazil has all the time held a particular place within the hearts of our group, and we’re extremely excited to convey IEM again to this passionate viewers,” stated Marc Winther, Director of Esports – Counter Strike at ESL FACEIT Group.
“The ambiance in Rio is really unmatched, and along with the State of Rio de Janeiro and FERJEE, we’re dedicated to delivering a high-stakes competitors that celebrates the very best of Counter-Strike tradition.”
Rio de Janeiro is the newest metropolis introduced for the 2026 ESL Professional Tour season. Along with Brazil, the circuit will host occasions in Kraków, Poland, the USA, and China. ESL has but to disclose the areas of its US and Chinese language occasions, happening in Might and November. Furthermore, ESL beforehand introduced that IEM Cologne in 2026 shall be a Valve-sanctioned CS2 Main.
ESL And Rio De Janeiro’s Partnership
As a part of the collaboration with the State of Rio de Janeiro and FERJEE, the events will collaborate to create a variety of ‘distinctive experiences’ throughout IEM Rio 2026. FERJEE will help with a variety of on-site actions and different parts of the occasion.
“Fostering esports is a method that goes past leisure: it generates jobs, drives the economic system, and affords new views for hundreds of individuals,” added Rafael Picciani, Secretary of Sports activities and Leisure for the State of Rio de Janeiro.
