Esports tournament organiser ESL has announced that a Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) event will return to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2026.
In addition to the return of IEM Rio 2026, the tournament organiser has announced a partnership with the State of Rio de Janeiro and the Rio de Janeiro Esports Federation (FERJEE).
Taking place from April 13th to 19th, IEM Rio 2026 marks the first time in two years that a Tier 1 Counter-Strike 2 event has taken place in Brazil. The last edition of IEM Rio took place in 2022, with NAVI emerging victorious.
16 teams from across the world will compete in the Brazilian city for a chance to win a share of $1m (~£747,410) in winnings. IEM Rio 2026 will also progress in the ESL Grand Slam race and Valve Regional Standings (VRS) points.
“Brazil has always held a special place in the hearts of our community, and we are incredibly excited to bring IEM back to this passionate audience,” said Marc Winther, Director of Esports – Counter Strike at ESL FACEIT Group.
“The atmosphere in Rio is truly unmatched, and together with the State of Rio de Janeiro and FERJEE, we’re committed to delivering a high-stakes competition that celebrates the best of Counter-Strike culture.”
Rio de Janeiro is the latest city announced for the 2026 ESL Pro Tour season. In addition to Brazil, the circuit will host events in Kraków, Poland, the United States, and China. ESL has yet to reveal the locations of its US and Chinese events, taking place in May and November. Moreover, ESL previously announced that IEM Cologne in 2026 will be a Valve-sanctioned CS2 Major.
ESL And Rio De Janeiro’s Partnership
As part of the collaboration with the State of Rio de Janeiro and FERJEE, the parties will collaborate to create a range of ‘unique experiences’ during IEM Rio 2026. FERJEE will assist with a range of on-site activities and other elements of the event.
“Fostering esports is a strategy that goes beyond entertainment: it generates jobs, drives the economy, and offers new perspectives for thousands of people,” added Rafael Picciani, Secretary of Sports and Leisure for the State of Rio de Janeiro.
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