CS2 Majors 2025: Full Schedule, Locations, Teams, and Predictions

In 2025, CS2 Majors are bigger, bolder, and more competitive than ever. With a new game engine, revised formats, and a growing global audience, the Counter-Strike Major Championship Series has fully transitioned into the CS2 era. Whether you're tracking your favorite teams, planning a trip to one of this year's top-tier events, or simply wondering when the next CS2 Major will drop, this guide has everything you need.

Source: wikipedia.org / Counter-Strike Major Championships

This isn't just another schedule dump. It's your definitive CS2 Major roadmap. From confirmed locations and qualified teams to format updates and expert predictions, we’ve broken it all down. And if the hype of Major season gets you ready to upgrade your loadout, Clash.gg is where you can keep that momentum going, with case battles, upgraders, and premium skin drops to match every win.

What Are CS2 Majors? Everything You Need to Know

CS2 Majors are the highest level of competitive play in the Counter-Strike universe, hosted by Valve. These events bring together the world’s top teams to battle for prestige, prize money, and a place in esports history.

The Evolution from CS:GO to CS2 Majors

CS2 Majors are now the new face of the most prestigious tournaments in Counter-Strike esports. These Valve-sponsored events represent the highest tier of competitive play, featuring only the best-performing teams from around the world. Before CS2, the Majors were built around the CS:GO engine, with legendary events like Katowice 2019, Stockholm 2021, and Rio 2022 becoming benchmarks for greatness.

With the official launch of Counter-Strike 2 in late 2023, Valve confirmed that Majors would continue, but now fully built on the Source 2 engine. That shift means new visuals, MR12 formats, revamped maps, and higher performance standards, all coming together to shape the future of competitive CS.

Why CS2 Majors Are the Pinnacle of Competitive Play

For pro players, a Major isn’t just another tournament—it’s the peak. Winning a Major means you’ve made history, joined the legends, and earned a place in Counter-Strike’s legacy. Majors bring together the best teams in the world, often through months of qualification and brutal competition. They also attract millions of fans globally, both online and at live events, turning each Major into a cultural moment for the CS2 scene.

Full CS2 Major Schedule for 2025

With Valve officially endorsing two Majors per year, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most stacked seasons in CS2 history. The first Major heads to North America with BLAST.tv, while the second lands in Central Europe under StarLadder’s banner. Both events will host the world’s top 32 teams, massive crowds, and record-breaking prize pools.

Spring Major 2025 

The first Major of the year took Counter-Strike back to the U.S., setting the tone for CS2’s global competitive calendar.

Dates and Location

The first CS2 Major of the year was the BLAST.tv Austin Major, taking place from March 17 to March 30, 2025, in Austin, Texas. This marks the first time in over six years that a CS Major returns to the U.S., last seen in Boston 2018. The event was hosted at the Moody Center, with a modern venue and a high-energy North American crowd.

Fall Major 2025 

​​The second Major brings the spotlight to Budapest, promising a high-stakes finish to the 2025 season. As the second Major of the year, Budapest could become a proving ground or redemption arc for teams that underperform in Austin. With Budapest’s passionate fanbase and StarLadder’s proven production experience, this Major promises top-tier storytelling on and off the server.

Dates and Location

The StarLadder CS2 Major is officially confirmed for Budapest, Hungary, and will take place from November 24 to December 14, 2025. This is the first time Hungary hosts a CS Major, and the event will unfold at a yet-to-be-named venue in Budapest. StarLadder’s return to Major organizing comes after a long hiatus, last hosting a Major in Berlin 2019.

CS2 Tournaments to Watch in 2025

The 2025 CS2 competitive scene is more dynamic than ever. With numerous events announced, here's a selection of key tournaments being held until the end of this year.

IEM Cologne 2025

Set for July 26–August 3, IEM Cologne is often referred to as the "Cathedral of Counter-Strike." With a $1 million prize pool, this tournament is renowned for its passionate crowds and historic significance in the CS2 community.

Esports World Cup 2025

Scheduled for August 20–24 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the Esports World Cup features 16 teams competing for a $1.25 million prize pool. This event highlights the growing prominence of the Middle East in the global esports arena.

Thunderpick World Championship

Taking place October 15–19, the Thunderpick World Championship offers a unique format and an $850,000 prize pool. This online event attracts global attention and serves as a critical warm-up for teams aiming for success in the year's final Major.

StarLadder StarSeries Season 20

From September 13–21, StarLadder StarSeries Season 20 unfolds in Budapest, Hungary, featuring a $500,000 prize pool. This tournament serves as a precursor to the upcoming Major in Budapest, offering teams a chance to acclimate to the environment and competition.

How to Attend a CS2 Major: Tickets, Travel, and Tips

Buying Tickets Early

Major tickets sell out fast—especially for playoff days. Sign up for early access through organizer newsletters (BLAST or StarLadder), and watch social media channels closely when dates drop. Aim to secure tickets as soon as they go on sale, especially for seated Grand Finals.

Best Travel Options to Major Cities

Budapest, Hungary is a travel-friendly city in Central Europe. Fly into BUD (Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport), and use metro lines or trams for local transport. Hotels and rentals in District V or near the arena are ideal.

What to Expect at a Live CS2 Major

A CS Major is more than just a tournament—it’s a festival of esports. Expect merch drops, player signings, creator meetups, fan zones, and intense in-arena atmosphere. From cosplay to crowd chants, it’s the kind of community event that lives beyond the server.

Predictions for the CS2 Majors 2025

The 2025 CS2 Majors are poised to be some of the most competitive events in Counter-Strike history, featuring a mix of seasoned champions and emerging talents.

Top Contenders and Rising Stars

This section highlights the elite teams and emerging talents expected to make significant impacts in the following CS2 Majors. These organizations have demonstrated consistent performance, strategic depth, and individual brilliance, making them favorites to clinch titles.

Team Vitality

Entering 2025 with significant momentum, Team Vitality has secured victories at IEM Katowice and ESL Pro League Season 21. Their consistent performance and strategic depth make them a formidable force in the CS2 scene.

MOUZ

MOUZ has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, clinching the PGL Cluj-Napoca 2025 title and finishing as runners-up in ESL Pro League Season 21. Their blend of experienced players and emerging talents positions them as strong contenders.

Team Spirit

Known for their tactical prowess, Team Spirit has been making waves with impressive performances in recent tournaments. Their strategic approach and cohesive gameplay are earning them recognition as a top-tier team.

Natus Vincere (NAVI)

NAVI continues to be a powerhouse in the CS2 arena, leveraging their experience and skill to remain competitive.Their disciplined playstyle and strategic executions keep them in contention for major titles.

G2 Esports

G2 Esports has been showcasing strong performances, with a roster capable of challenging the best. Their aggressive playstyle and individual skill make them a team to watch in the upcoming Majors.

Potential Dark Horse Teams

While not always in the spotlight, some teams possess the potential to upset established powerhouses. These squads, through recent roster changes or impressive performances, could surprise many and make deep runs in the Majors.

Team Falcons

With recent roster enhancements, including the addition of star player m0NESY, Team Falcons has been on an upward trajectory. Their recent victories and improved coordination suggest they could surprise many in the upcoming Majors.

Aurora Gaming

After acquiring the former Eternal Fire roster, Aurora Gaming has been making significant strides. Their recent win at the Skyesports Masters 2024 highlights their potential to disrupt the status quo.

NAVI Junior

As the academy team of Natus Vincere, NAVI Junior has been turning heads with their performances. Their victory at the YaLLa Compass Spring 2025 and consistent showings indicate a bright future.

The MongolZ

Representing the Asia-Pacific region, The MongolZ have been steadily climbing the ranks. Their aggressive playstyle and regional dominance make them a team that could make deep runs in international tournaments.

As the CS2 Majors approach, the competitive landscape is rich with talent and potential. While established teams aim to solidify their legacies, emerging squads are eager to make their mark.

CS2 Majors 2025 FAQs

Where Will CS2 Majors Be Held in 2025?

In 2025, two official CS2 Majors are scheduled:

Spring Major: The BLAST.tv Austin Major will take place from June 3 to June 22, 2025, at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas, USA. This marks the first Major in the U.S. since Boston 2018.

Fall Major: The StarLadder Budapest Major is set for November 24 to December 14, 2025, with early stages at the MTK Sportpark and playoffs at the MVM Dome in Budapest, Hungary. This event signifies StarLadder's return to Major hosting since Berlin 2019.

How Many CS2 Majors Are There in 2025?

Valve has confirmed that there will be two CS2 Majors in 2025: the BLAST.tv Austin Major in June and the StarLadder Budapest Major in November-December.

How Do Teams Qualify for the Majors?

Teams qualify for CS2 Majors through Major Regional Qualifiers (MRQs), replacing the previous Regional Major Ranking (RMR) system. MRQs are held across Europe, the Americas, and Asia, with sub-regional divisions. The top teams from these qualifiers, along with directly invited teams based on Valve Regional Standings, comprise the 32-team Major roster.

What Is the Prize Pool for CS2 Majors?

Both the BLAST.tv Austin Major and the StarLadder Budapest Major feature a $1.25 million USD prize pool. The distribution is as follows:

• 1st Place: $500,000
• 2nd Place: $170,000
• 3rd-4th Place: $80,000 each
• 5th-8th Place: $45,000 each
• 9th-16th Place: $15,000 each

This prize structure maintains consistency with previous CS:GO Majors, reflecting Valve's ongoing commitment to the CS2 competitive scene.

Ready to Go All-In for the Next CS2 Major?

Major season is about more than watching. It's about being part of the action. Whether you're cheering from the crowd, catching every map online, or opening cases between matches, CS2 Majors are a time to celebrate the best of competitive Counter-Strike.

Fuel the hype with Clash.gg! From Case Battles to premium CS2 cases, you can bring that Major-level adrenaline straight into your inventory.

May your picks be smart, your skins be clean, and your favorite team lift the trophy in 2025.