Intel Extreme Masters Katowice 2025 is poised to be one of the most anticipated events in the esports calendar. IEM Katowice will once again bring together the world’s elite within Counter-Strike to compete for glory and a substantial prize pool.
Scheduled from January 29 to February 9, 2025, in the iconic Spodek Arena in Katowice, Poland, this tournament continues the tradition of high-stakes competition and thrilling gameplay.
Tournament Structure
IEM Katowice 2025 will feature a comprehensive three-stage format designed to test teams’ resilience and skill:
Stage 1 (Play-In Stage):
- Participants: 16 teams invited based on the Valve Global Standings (VRS), ranked 9th to 24th.
- Format: Double-elimination bracket with all matches played as best-of-three (Bo3).
- Advancement: The top eight teams will progress to Stage 2.
Stage 2 (Group Stage):
- Participants: 8 teams directly invited (VRS ranks 1st to 8th) and the 8 advancing from Stage 1.
- Format: Teams are divided into two double-elimination groups, with all matches as Bo3.
- Advancement: The top three teams from each group move to the Playoffs:
– Group winners advance directly to the Semifinals.
– Runners-up proceed to the Quarterfinals as high seeds.
– Third-place teams enter the Quarterfinals as low seeds.
Playoffs:
- Format: Single-elimination bracket.
- Match Structure: Quarterfinals and Semifinals are Bo3; the Grand Final is a best-of-five (Bo5).
Play-In Schedule
The IEM Katowice 2025 Play-In stage is scheduled to commence on January 29, 2025. The initial matchups are as follows:
January 29, 2025:
- 10:30 CET:
- 3DMAX vs. FlyQuest
- paiN vs. Virtus.pro
- 13:00 CET:
- Astralis vs. MIBR
- SAW vs. GamerLegion
- 15:30 CET:
- 18:00 CET:
- Liquid vs. HEROIC
- Complexity vs. Eternal Fire
Already qualified teams
G2 Esports
Natus Vincere
FaZe Clan
Most recent IEM Katowice champions
2024 – Team Spirit
In 2024, Team Spirit emerged as the IEM Katowice champions. The team demonstrated remarkable prowess throughout the tournament, culminating in a hard-fought victory in the grand final. This win marked a significant milestone for Team Spirit, highlighting their ascent in the CS competitive scene.
2023 – G2 Esports
G2 Esports claimed the IEM Katowice 2023 championship, showcasing exceptional skill and teamwork. Their journey to the title included decisive victories over formidable opponents. In the grand final, G2 faced Heroic and secured a 3-1 victory, with Nemanja “huNter-” Kovač earning the MVP award for his outstanding performance.
2022 – FaZe Clan
In 2022, FaZe Clan secured their first IEM Katowice title. The international roster, featuring players like Håvard “rain” Nygaard and Russel “Twistzz” Van Dulken, delivered outstanding performances throughout the tournament. In the grand final, they faced G2 Esports and emerged victorious with a 3-0 scoreline, marking a significant achievement in their competitive journey.
