Katowice to Host ESL Pro League Season 24 Finals in 2026
The ESL FACEIT Group has announced that the ESL Pro League Season 24 Finals will be hosted at the iconic Spodek Arena in Katowice, Poland, from October 9 to 11, 2026. This marks the first EPL live arena playoffs since 2019, bringing back the electrifying in-person experience that fans have long awaited. With a reputation as one of Counter-Strike’s most historic venues, Spodek’s live atmosphere promises to elevate the spectacle of EPL to new heights.
A Historic Venue for Counter-Strike
Spodek Arena has been a cornerstone of Counter-Strike esports since 2013, serving as the stage for some of the game’s most legendary moments. EPL Season 24 will run from September 24 to October 11, 2026, offering a $1,000,000 prize pool and the coveted championship trophy.
The decision to bring the finals to Katowice underscores the city’s reputation as a global esports hub. Marcin Krupa, Mayor of Katowice, expressed pride in the continued collaboration:
“Katowice has been a symbol of global esports, and Spodek – its temple. The return of ESL Pro League with a live audience here is a sign of trust and recognition. Counter-Strike history will be written once again in our city, with the best players and thousands of fans from around the world.”
Marc Winther, Director of Game Ecosystems - Counter-Strike at EFG, emphasized the importance of the live format:
“For over a decade, ESL Pro League has been a cornerstone of competitive Counter-Strike. Katowice has been the birthplace of champions, and Spodek’s atmosphere is unmatched. There’s no better place for fans to feel the thrill of ESL Pro League live.”
A New Chapter
The last arena playoffs for EPL took place in Odense, Denmark, in 2019, with earlier live events hosted in Montpellier, Dallas, and São Paulo. The 2026 Katowice event signals a strong return to large-scale, in-person Counter-Strike competition and reaffirms the city’s status as a global epicenter for competitive gaming.
For the latest CS2 news and guides, follow Strafe Esports. Also, check out our X account for real-time content and coverage.
Featured Image Source: ESL
Read More:
BLAST Bounty Fall 2025 Playoffs: Everything You Need to Know