A New Era for Esports in Poland: IEM Katowice Moves to Kraków in 2026
The major development in the global Counter-Strike community is set to take place: the Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) will be relocating from Katowice to Kraków in 2026. ESL FACEIT Group (EFG) has signed a multi-year contract deal with the city of Kraków, marking the end of Katowice’s long-standing role as host since 2013.
The first IEM Kraków edition will be held from January 27 to February 8, 2026, and it promises to be one of the world’s most prestigious esports events in Poland.
Reasons for Relocating to Kraków
The primary reason for relocating to Kraków is the need for expansion and upgraded infrastructure. In the final three days of IEM Kraków 2026 will take place at Tauron Arena, which is Poland’s largest indoor arena and has a capacity of hosting more than 15,000 fans. In the tournament, 24 teams are participating, with a total prize pool of $1.25 million; last year it was 1 million, which reflects the tournament’s growth this year.
Read Also: How to Play Counter-Strike 2?
Spodek Arena in Katowice has an emotionally strong attachment with fans, but due to the old venue, lesser seating capacity, and high maintenance costs, the organisers decided to relocate from Katowice to Kraków. Modern Kraków’s amenities, with the city’s strategic appeal, make it an ideal successor to carry the legacy forward.
Community Feedback and Impact
In 2019, IEM Katowice generated over £14 million for the local economy by boosting tourism, enhancing hospitality, and attracting global attention. Now Kraków is hosting the IEM, it is also expected that local businesses will get some assistance, and authorities are braced and ready to prepare for the same, if not a greater, impact.
The decision has received mixed reactions from fans. The Katowice venue is a trademark for Counter-Strike history. A lot of people in the community think that the shift is the end of an era, while some optimistically view the change as a step forward toward the evolutionary growth of Counter-Strike.
As the countdown starts to IEM Krakow 2026, the focus is on how the event will uphold traditions and the level of intensity for improving esports’ future.
