The StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 is poised to make history in the Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) competitive gaming world, marking StarLadder’s comeback as a Major host since 2019. Slated from November 24 to December 14, 2025, this top-tier tournament will gather 32 elite teams for an intense battle over a $1.25 million prize pool, distributed across four action-packed stages. The Major Regional Qualifiers (MRQs) are scheduled from October 16-19, with invites being announced on October 8. This setup follows the recent BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 (June 3-22). Esports enthusiasts can explore an array of CS2 weapon skins to anticipate which designs could dominate the game servers. Get ready for all the details about this much-anticipated event!
Event Overview
The Budapest Major is set to take place in Hungary, with three stages (November 24-27, November 29-December 2, and December 4-7) happening at the cozy MTK Sportpark, which can hold approximately 2,000 spectators. The final stage, the Playoffs (December 11-14), will be held at the spacious MVM Dome, a massive arena seating 20,000 people and boasting a unique 360-degree stage setup. Tickets for the group stages are priced between €10-30, while playoff tickets range from €80-370. Fans can get their hands on these tickets through Ticketfairy. StarLadder CEO Roman Romantsov guarantees an extraordinary experience, aiming to surpass the success of their 2019 Berlin Major.
Qualification Process
Valve has made a notable adjustment by canceling the Major Regional Qualifiers (MRQs) that were initially set for October 16-19 in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Instead, all 32 teams will receive direct invitations based on the Valve Regional Standings (VRS), following the Austin Major, with the invites being announced on October 8. This change is aimed at unifying community events with Majors, as Valve considers a separate qualification process to be unnecessary and potentially disruptive. The decision eliminates scheduling clashes with significant LAN events such as CS Asia Championships, Thunderpick World Championship, and MESA Nomadic Masters Fall. Additional information regarding the distribution of regional slots will be provided after Austin, with possible modifications to the planned six Asia, ten Americas, and 16 Europe slots.
Teams to Watch
Multiple squads are currently creating a stir in the esports scene. FaZe Clan, bolstered by Oleksandr “s1mple” Kostyliev on loan from Natus Vincere, have been impressive at Stage 3 in Austin with notable displays, although s1mple’s future remains uncertain. Virtus.pro, despite benching Dzhami “Jame” Ali and having a smaller roster, have progressed to Stage 3, demonstrating determination. MOUZ, Team Vitality, G2 Esports, each starting from Stage 3 in their respective Majors, have shown strong recent form at IEM Dallas 2025 and earlier events, with G2 set to add Álvaro “SunPayus” García and coach Eetu “sAw” Saha following Austin. Meanwhile, Falcons’ early exit at Austin has sparked whispers of Maxim “kyousuke” Lukin from Spirit Academy joining, though these rumors are unconfirmed.
What to Expect
The tournament’s early rounds will employ a Swiss format, leading up to an intense elimination bracket with substantial rewards at stake. Competitors can exhibit their unique styles by using distinctive skins such as the M4A4 Howl, enhancing the overall appeal of the contest. With its rich heritage and StarLadder’s creative flair, this Major is poised to be a showcase of CS2 expertise and tactics, capturing attention globally.
Looking Ahead
Following the reveal of the VRS-based invitation system in Austin, there’s a lot of buzz and anticipation within the CS2 community about the upcoming Budapest Major 2025. Regardless if you’re planning to attend in person or watch it online, this event promises to make a significant mark on esports history.
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2025-06-12 12:14