Valve has unveiled the eight Dota 2 teams earning direct invitations to The International 2025, the pinnacle of the game’s esports scene. Scheduled for September 4-14 in Hamburg, Germany, this prestigious tournament will see top squads, including former champions, compete for the coveted Aegis of Champions.
A Stage for Champions and Rising Stars
The International 2025 will feature a thrilling lineup, with past winners Team Liquid, Team Spirit, and Tundra Esports returning to reclaim glory. Joining them are standout teams that have dominated the 2025 Dota 2 season. Serbian squad PARIVISION, fresh off their ESL One Raleigh victory in April, and BetBoom Team, champions of FISSURE Universe: Episode 4, have secured their spots. Additionally, All Gamers Global, which acquired the roster of Chinese team Team Tidebound on the day of the announcement, will also compete. The invited teams include:
- Team Liquid
- PARIVISION
- BetBoom Team
- All Gamers Global (formerly Team Tidebound)
- Gaimin Gladiators
- Team Spirit
- Team Falcons
- Tundra Esports
New Format for a Fierce Competition
This year’s tournament, the 14th edition of The International, introduces a revamped format to heighten the stakes. Sixteen elite teams will battle through a five-round Swiss stage, with only eight advancing to the Playoffs. The final three days of the Playoffs will unfold at Hamburg’s Barclays Arena, promising an electric atmosphere for fans. Valve noted that the direct invites were awarded to teams that have consistently excelled throughout the 2025 season, showcasing both veteran prowess and emerging talent.
The Path to Hamburg via Regional Qualifiers
The remaining eight slots for The International 2025 will be determined through a series of Regional Qualifiers. Teams not receiving direct invites must first compete in international Open Qualifiers, running from May 31 to June 3 (June 2-5 for China). Successful teams will then advance to Regional Qualifiers, which will allocate spots as follows:
- Eastern Europe: 1 slot (June 4-8)
- South America: 1 slot (June 4-6)
- China: 1 slot (June 9-12)
- North America: 1 slot (June 9-12)
- Western Europe: 2 slots (June 13-17)
- Southeast Asia: 2 slots (June 13-17)
A Global Showdown Awaits
With a mix of legendary teams and bold newcomers, The International 2025 is shaping up to be a defining moment for Dota 2 esports. The combination of a new competitive format and a diverse field of contenders ensures high-stakes action, as teams from across the globe vie for the ultimate prize in Hamburg.