StarLadder to Host Second 2025 CS2 Major in Budapest

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

Andre Guaraldo

The Counter-Strike community continues to be spoiled, as StarLadder will host the second CS2 Major of 2025 in Budapest, Hungary. This information, first reported by Anonimotum, signals StarLadder's return to the tournament organization spotlight after not appearing in the scene since 2019, before the Covid pandemic.

Majors in Hungary, a historical debut

This announcement places Hungary on the Counter-Strike map for the first time in history. While Europe has long been a cornerstone of CS Majors, with countries like Poland hosting iconic events such as IEM Katowice, Budapest’s debut as a Major destination underscores the growing diversity in esports hosting locations. The tournament is expected to run from December 1 to December 14, 2025, making it the final Major of the season before the player-break.

While still not confirmed, the Budapest Arena is expected to host the Starladder 2025 CS2 Major (credits: Mageba)

StarLadder's return to hosting CS events

StarLadder last organized a Major in August 2019—the Berlin Major—where Astralis claimed victory in their very own CS:GO era. Following that event, StarLadder stepped away from hosting significant tournaments, leaving many fans wondering if they would return.

In addition to organizing the second 2025 Major, StarLadder has announced at least four StarSeries tournaments between 2025 and 2026, each featuring 16 teams.

StarSeries Event Schedule:

Season 19: May 26 – June 1, 2025
Season 20: September 12 – September 21, 2025
Season 21: May 25 – May 31, 2026
Season 22: September 11 – September 20, 2026

2025's Major Schedule

The Budapest Major will follow the season's first Major, set to take place in Austin, Texas, in June 2025. This two-Major format continues to uphold the competitive standard set by CS2, which aims to bring high-stakes tournaments to a global audience.

Currently, the competitive focus remains on the Shanghai Major in China, with the EMEA RMR B qualifier underway. The Shanghai Major’s Main Event begins on November 30, 2024, and will conclude with the grand finals on December 15, 2024.

All eyes in the Shanghai Major for the 2024 end-of-year schedule (credits: Perfect World)

What This Means for CS2 Fans

For fans and players alike, StarLadder’s return is a welcome addition to the competitive calendar. Budapest’s debut as a Major host city adds variety to the CS2 landscape and offers a new opportunity for Central and Eastern Europe to shine in esports.

With StarLadder’s track record of delivering memorable events, anticipation is high for what the Budapest Major will bring to the table.

Feature image credits: Starladder

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