IEM Sets Course for DreamHack Atlanta 2026

The gaming world is buzzing with excitement as a major esports event sets its sights on Atlanta. In a thrilling announcement, ESL has unveiled plans for the Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) to land in Georgia, USA, next year. This prestigious tournament promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for gaming enthusiasts and competitors alike.

Intel Extreme Masters Atlanta 2026

Enthusiasts of Counter-Strike 2 can mark their calendars for May 15th to 17th, 2026, as the competition unfolds at the Georgia World Congress Center, coinciding with the highly-anticipated DreamHack Atlanta gaming festival. The event will gather the top 16 teams from the Valve Regional Standings to battle for a share of the $1 million prize pool. The North American slot for this thrilling showdown transitions from its former home in Dallas, adding a fresh backdrop to the competition.

The tournament structure features a rigorous two-stage format. Stage 1 kicks off with a double-elimination bracket and best-of-three (Bo3) matches. The top six teams will then advance to the Playoffs, culminating in a single-elimination bracket and an intense best-of-five (Bo5) Grand Final.

Tickets for this extraordinary EPT Masters event are now available on DreamHack’s official website, offering various tiers with unique perks. Fans can grab these tickets starting January 19th, 2026, at 4:00 PM EST. The IEM Premium three-day ticket stands out, providing guaranteed seating, prime stage views, an IEM+ upgrade goodie bag, and full access to DreamHack.

CDL Heads to DreamHack

Adding to the excitement, the Call of Duty League (CDL) Major III is also confirmed for DreamHack Atlanta. Fans can purchase tickets online, with options like the VIP three-day ticket ensuring the best seats and full DreamHack access. Moreover, the CDL Challengers team ticket offers fans a chance to compete in the amateur esports tournament, joining forces in teams of five.

The Major is set to be a Pro-Am event, with the top four Challengers teams testing their skills against the 12 CDL franchises. This dynamic format promises a thrilling display of talent and strategy, further elevating DreamHack Atlanta as a must-visit destination for esports aficionados.