IEM Rio to return in 2026 at Farmasi Arena

ESL has announced that they will be returning to Rio de Janeiro in 2026 as an ESL Pro Tour Masters event, continuing the city’s Counter-Strike legacy after skipping 2025.

IEM Rio will take place in from April 13 to April 19, featuring 16 teams and carrying a prize pool of $1 million. The playoffs will move to Farmasi Arena, where 19,000 fans will be accommodated from April 17-19.

The tickets will be sold in three waves, starting December 15. IEM Rio has been one of the prestigious tournament, and was also given the status of a Major in 2022.