IEM Kraków will welcome fans and players from around the globe to TAURON Arena Kraków on February 6-8, 2026
Intel® Extreme Masters (IEM) is making history by moving from Katowice to Kraków, Poland. For the first time ever, the world's longest-running esports tournament will light up the TAURON Arena Kraków on February 6-8, 2026.
"Kraków is a city proud of its royal history, but simultaneously open to the future and innovation. The global reach of Intel Extreme Masters Kraków is a chance to present Kraków to new audiences as an ideal destination for business, tourism, and investment," said Aleksander Miszalski, Mayor of Kraków.
"For almost two decades, Intel Extreme Masters has built a heritage full of emotional and defining moments in esports history. From the early days in Hannover to the rise of new legends in Katowice, every stop along the way has left its mark on our legacy," said Michal Blicharz, VP Product Development at ESL FACEIT Group. "Today, as we begin a new chapter of this story, we look forward to continuing it with the world's best gamers and esports fans, as they add new pages to it in Kraków, on a bigger scale than ever before."
Fans staying in Kraków will have an unique chance to get up and close to the Intel Extreme Masters trophy on May 30 - June 2 at Galeria Krakowska. On June 8, the trophy will be available to visitors of Kraków City Hall during an open day and will remain in the city hall for a 2 week period.
Commencing on January 27, IEM Kraków will set the stage for the world’s best 24 Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) teams battling it out to secure six coveted spots in the Playoff stage of the competition. With $1,250,000 total winnings on the line and one of the most iconic esports trophies, the tournament is poised to elevate the fan experience while honoring its legacy.
