One of Counter-Strike’s most electrifying tournaments is set to return to Brazil, as Intel® Extreme Masters (IEM) Rio makes its comeback to the Farmasi Arena on April 13-19, 2026. IEM Rio 2026 marks a strategic partnership between ESL FACEIT Group (EFG), the State of Rio de Janeiro, and Rio de Janeiro Esports Federation (FERJEE). The collaboration reflects a shared vision to elevate Rio de Janeiro’s presence on the global esports stage by providing a home for one of the world’s most prestigious tournaments.
Coming to the heart of South America, IEM Rio 2026 will feature 16 Counter-Strike teams competing for $1,000,000 in Total Winnings, a valuable victory in the ESL Grand Slam race, and the coveted ESL Pro Tour (EPT) Masters trophy. The final three days of the competition on April 17-19 will welcome fans to enjoy and experience the heat of top-tier Counter-Strike live.
“Brazil has always held a special place in the hearts of our community, and we are incredibly excited to bring IEM back to this passionate audience,” said Marc Winther, Director Esports – Counter-Strike at ESL FACEIT Group. “The atmosphere in Rio is truly unmatched, and together with the State of Rio de Janeiro and FERJEE, we’re committed to delivering a high-stakes competition that celebrates the best of Counter-Strike culture."
“IEM Rio has become emblematic, firmly establishing itself within our state and in the hearts of the Counter-Strike fans. Although the event did not take place in 2025, we remained active and used that period to plan ahead for upcoming editions, making the 2026 return possible,” said Cadu Albuquerque, President of FERJEE. “This is only the beginning of a partnership that reflects the strength, commitment, and long-term vision of FERJEE and Rio towards the esports ecosystem."
“Fostering esports is a strategy that goes beyond entertainment: it generates jobs, drives the economy, and offers new perspectives for thousands of people. For this reason, the State of Rio de Janeiro has expanded its support for events and projects related to games, consolidating Rio de Janeiro as a key player on the national and international scene.” – Rafael Picciani, Secretary of Sports and Leisure of the State of Rio de Janeiro
The tournament will feature 16 teams, split into two groups of 8 teams, playing in a double-elimination bracket. Three top placed teams from each group will advance to the playoffs. The playoffs will see 6 teams play it out in a single-elimination bracket, which will also feature a third place decider match. All matches will be played in a best-of-three scenario, except the Grand Final, which will be a best-of-five.
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For more information on Intel Extreme Masters Rio 2026, visit the official website here.
Ticket sales for IEM Rio will kick off with wave 1 on December 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM BRT.
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