Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) fans can gear up for an exciting start to the Major calendar with the BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025, set to take place in Austin, Texas. This historic event will be hosted at the Moody Center from June 3 to June 22, showcasing the best teams in the world competing for glory and a share of the $1.25 million prize pool.
As the first CS2 Major to feature an expanded 32-team format, the tournament promises thrilling matches across all stages. Here’s everything you need to know about the competition, from its qualification process to the tournament structure.
Qualification Process and Regional Qualifiers
The path to the Austin Major begins with regional qualifiers (MRQ) across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Teams will be invited based on Valve’s Ranking System (VRS), ensuring that the strongest contenders make it to the event. Key dates to remember:
- April 7, 2025: Invitations are sent to teams for the Major and the MRQ.
- April 14–17, 2025: Regional qualifiers take place.
Out of the 32 competing teams, the top 16 in the VRS standings will automatically progress to advanced tournament stages, while the remaining 16 spots will be decided through the MRQ.
Image via BLAST.
Tournament Format
The BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 is structured to test teams’ consistency and resilience, with three Swiss-format stages followed by a knockout playoff phase:
- Stage 1:
- 16 teams compete in best-of-one (BO1) and best-of-three (BO3) matches.
- The top 8 teams advance to Stage 2, while the rest are eliminated.
- Stage 2:
- Another group of 16 teams enters the fray, repeating the same Swiss format.
- Again, 8 teams progress, with the others eliminated.
- Stage 3:
- The remaining 16 teams battle for the 8 coveted playoff spots.
- Playoffs:
- A classic single-elimination bracket determines the champion.
- All playoff matches will be best-of-three (BO3) for maximum intensity.
Image via BLAST.
Key Features of the BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025
- Expanded Format: For the first time, 32 teams will compete in a CS2 Major.
- Massive Prize Pool: Teams will vie for a share of the $1.25 million purse.
- Swiss Stages: A tried-and-tested format that balances fairness and excitement.
- Top-Tier Venue: The iconic Moody Center in Austin, Texas, will host the event.
- BLAST’s Second Major: After the success of the BLAST.tv Paris Major 2023, the organizers aim to elevate the CS2 Major experience.
A Historic Milestone for CS2 Esports
The BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 represents a new era for Counter-Strike esports, bringing together the world’s best teams under an expanded format and in a top-tier venue. With intense competition across every stage, fans can expect unforgettable matches as teams chase the ultimate prize.
Mark your calendars for June, and prepare to witness the beginning of something extraordinary in CS2.
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