The competitive gaming event organizer, ESL, has revealed plans for an **Intel Extreme Masters (IEM)** tournament focusing on Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) to be held once more in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, during 2026.
Alongside the confirmation of IEM Rio 2026‘s comeback, the event management company has also declared a collaborative agreement with the government of the State of Rio de Janeiro and the Rio de Janeiro Esports Federation (FERJEE).
Scheduled for April 13th through 19th, IEM Rio 2026 will be the inaugural top-tier Counter-Strike 2 competition hosted in Brazil in two years. The previous IEM Rio, held in 2022, saw NAVI claim the championship title.
Sixteen teams globally will vie in the Brazilian metropolis for a portion of the $1 million (approximately £747,410) prize pool. Participants at IEM Rio 2026 will also earn points towards the ESL Grand Slam competition and Valve Regional Standings (VRS).
“Brazil has consistently occupied a unique position within our community’s affections, and we are profoundly enthusiastic about reintroducing IEM to its fervent fanbase,” stated Marc Winther, Director of Esports – Counter Strike at ESL FACEIT Group.
He continued, “The vibrancy in Rio is genuinely unparalleled, and alongside the State of Rio de Janeiro and FERJEE, our dedication lies in staging a high-intensity tournament that exemplifies the pinnacle of Counter-Strike heritage.”
Rio de Janeiro represents the newest location declared for the 2026 ESL Pro Tour calendar. Beyond Brazil, this series of competitions will feature stops in Kraków, Poland, the United States, and China. ESL has not yet disclosed the precise venues for its American and Chinese tournaments, scheduled for May and November, respectively. Furthermore, ESL earlier stated that IEM Cologne in 2026 is slated to become a Valve-approved CS2 Major.
The Collaboration Between ESL and Rio De Janeiro
Through the alliance with the State of Rio de Janeiro and FERJEE, the involved entities intend to cooperate in curating various ‘distinctive encounters’ throughout IEM Rio 2026. FERJEE is expected to aid with numerous on-location engagements and additional facets of the occasion.
“Cultivating esports represents a strategic approach that extends beyond mere amusement; it stimulates employment, propels economic growth, and opens fresh avenues for countless individuals,” further commented Rafael Picciani, Secretary of Sports and Leisure for the State of Rio de Janeiro.
This article regarding IEM’s comeback to Rio de Janeiro in 2026 was originally published on Esports Insider.
