Home

It’s official! Counter-Strike’s ESL Pro League is making its way back to the big stage, and not just any stage. The Season 24 Finals will take over Katowice’s legendary Spodek Arena from 9-11 October 2026.

For long-time fans, this is a bit of a full-circle moment. The Spodek has been home to some of the most iconic moments in Counter-Strike history, but it’s been a while since Pro League itself has had an arena crowd. The last time was back in 2019 for Season 10 in Odense, Denmark. Since then, the playoffs have mostly been studio-based, Malta has been the regular spot, with only the odd exception.

The announcement ends weeks of speculation after ESL teased that Counter-Strike would be returning to Katowice next year. Given that the only major ESL event without a venue locked in was Pro League, it didn’t take fans long to connect the dots.

ESL’s Director of Game Ecosystems, Marc Winther, summed it up nicely: “Katowice has been the birthplace of dozens of champions, and Spodek Arena has witnessed countless iconic moments over the years – it’s where Counter-Strike truly took a massive leap. With its storied history and inimitable atmosphere, there’s no better place for our fans to enjoy the thrill of ESL Pro League live.”

It also marks a bit of a reset for the Pro League format. ESL clearly wants to bring back the live arena atmosphere, and Katowice’s passionate crowds are pretty much perfect for it. Plus, with Halloween just around the corner, fans are already hoping ESL leans into some spooky themes for the event.

Between IEM Kraków, global IEM stops in Brazil, the US, and China, and even the first CS2 Major of 2026 at IEM Cologne, ESL’s calendar next year is absolutely stacked. But for anyone who’s always wanted to experience the roar of the Spodek during a Counter-Strike match? October’s going to be your chance.

ESL Pro League Season 24 to Take Place at Iconic Spodek Arena in Katowice

Image Credit: ESL FaceIt Group