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The stage is set for the final Intel Extreme Masters event of the year as IEM Chengdu 2025 locks in its full line-up. ESL has confirmed all 16 teams invited to the tournament, which will run in China from 3–9 November 2025, featuring a $1,000,000 prize pool and a double-elimination group stage leading into playoffs.

This Chengdu event will close out a huge year for IEM after stops in Katowice, Melbourne, Dallas, and Cologne. Fans are keen to see whether Team Spirit can keep their winning momentum from Cologne, or if Team Vitality, MOUZ, or another rising squad can take the crown in Chengdu.

The 16 Teams Invited to IEM Chengdu 2025

Here’s the full team list announced by ESL:

  • Team Vitality
  • Team Spirit
  • FURIA Esports
  • paiN Gaming
  • The MongolZ
  • TYLOO
  • MOUZ
  • Natus Vincere
  • Team Falcons
  • FaZe Clan
  • Astralis
  • G2 Esports
  • 3DMAX
  • Lynn Vision
  • Virtus.pro
  • HEROIC

Originally, both Aurora Gaming and GamerLegion were in line for invitations, but they declined their spots. That opened the door for Virtus.pro and HEROIC, who joined the list via the Global Valve Regional Standings (VRS).

Format and What’s at Stake

The 16 teams will be split into two groups of eight, playing through a double-elimination, best-of-three format. The top three from each group will move on to the live playoff stage in Chengdu starting on 7 November.

With $1,000,000 on the line, IEM Chengdu also plays a big role in the ongoing ESL Pro Tour and the coveted Intel Grand Slam race. The event’s roster submission deadline is set for 20 October 2025, with squads required to keep a majority of their line-up from the original invite date.

IEM 2025 Season So Far

IEM Chengdu will be the fifth and final stop of the 2025 circuit. Here’s a look back at the year so far:

  • IEM Katowice (29 Jan – 9 Feb) – Winner: Team Vitality | Runner-up: Team Spirit
  • IEM Melbourne (21 – 27 Apr) – Winner: Team Vitality | Runner-up: Team Falcons
  • IEM Dallas (19 – 25 May) – Winner: Team Vitality | Runner-up: MOUZ
  • IEM Cologne (23 Jul – 3 Aug) – Winner: Team Spirit | Runner-up: MOUZ
  • IEM Chengdu (3 – 9 Nov) – Winner: TBD | Runner-up: TBD

The big question is simple: can Team Spirit build on their Cologne victory, or will Vitality, FaZe, or another contender step up in Chengdu?

Final Thoughts

With the full IEM Chengdu 2025 team list confirmed, all eyes now turn to China for what promises to be an explosive end to the IEM calendar. From heavyweights like FaZe, Na’Vi, and Vitality to underdogs like Lynn Vision and The MongolZ, the competition is stacked.

The big question is simple: can anyone stop Vitality’s run, or will Team Spirit continue to spoil the party? Chengdu will have the answers.