In a bold move that’s set to shake up the landscape of competitive gaming, tournament organiser BLAST has announced a major US expansion for 2025. With headquarters now located in New York City, this expansion sees BLAST launching several high-profile esports events across North America—including a Counter-Strike 2 Major in Austin, Texas, and a Fortnite Pro-Am event in Los Angeles. As it continues building momentum from a recent footprint in India, BLAST is doubling down on its strategy to connect with local fans, creators, and communities in the United States.
This year marks a transformative chapter in BLAST’s global growth, fueling the proliferation of live esports events and exclusive media content across both continents. From competitive Counter-Strike 2 showdowns to creators-driven Fortnite clashes, BLAST is clearly positioning itself as more than just a tournament organiser—it’s becoming an entertainment powerhouse.
Strategic growth in New York City
Establishing a permanent hub in New York City signifies BLAST’s commitment to the North American market. This central office will serve as the command center for coordinating all North American operations, events, and content initiatives. According to Leo Matlock, Chief Business Officer at BLAST, the goal is to ensure long-term integration with US fans, media, and talent.
By anchoring themselves in a major media capital, BLAST gains direct access to potential collaborations with content creators and tech innovators, while streamlining its logistics for upcoming esports events. It’s more than symbolic; this move places BLAST at the beating heart of North America’s digital and competitive gaming industries.
Exciting 2025 calendar of esports events
Gamers and esports fans can look forward to an adrenaline-pumping lineup of BLAST-hosted tournaments in 2025. One of the main highlights includes the much-anticipated Counter-Strike 2 Major taking place in Austin, Texas—a pivotal event that not only elevates American viewership but also brings the world’s best CS2 teams to North America’s center stage.
On the more casual side of competition, BLAST is also spearheading a Fortnite Pro-Am in Los Angeles, fusing celebrity appearances with top-tier creator matchups. These events are expected to draw massive crowds, both online and at live venues, firmly positioning North America as BLAST’s newest esports stronghold.
Collaborations with content creators build fan engagement
In a digital-first gaming culture, creators play a crucial role—and BLAST knows it. As part of its US expansion, the company plans to work closely with American-based content creators to design original programming, run studio interviews, and appear at live events. These collaborations aim to fuel fandom between tournaments, keeping communities engaged through exclusive behind-the-scenes content, pro insights, and creator-curated experiences.
This creator-first approach underscores BLAST’s strategy of going beyond traditional esports formats. By incorporating influencers into its esports ecosystem, BLAST ensures it not only broadcasts games but builds lasting storylines that resonate with everyday fans.
A global strategy with local execution
The BLAST US expansion is not an isolated move—it’s part of a broader global plan. Earlier in 2025, BLAST also opened operations in India through a strategic partnership with RISE (a Reliance-owned company), making Asia another cornerstone in its world tour. These expansions reflect a clear mission: cement BLAST’s legacy as a global esports entertainment brand with strong local loyalty in every market.
And while each region offers unique fan cultures and infrastructural challenges, BLAST’s consistency in hosting premium tournaments with rich storytelling continues to be a winning formula. From New York City to Mumbai, and now Los Angeles to Austin, each new location adds fuel to BLAST’s competitive fire.
Why this matters to the Counter-Strike community
With the Counter-Strike 2 Major heading stateside, American CS fans finally get a front-row seat to the most prestigious tournament format in the game. BLAST’s decision deepens its involvement with the CS2 ecosystem by positioning North America as more than just a viewer market—it’s now a battleground.
Given the recent growth of US-based CS talent pools and increased regional interest in esports events, this expansion could usher in a new era for aspiring players and content creators. It sends a strong signal that BLAST sees North America not just as a venue, but as a major contributor to the future of professional Counter-Strike.
Frequently asked questions about BLAST US expansion (FAQ)
What is the BLAST US expansion?
BLAST’s US expansion involves opening a new office in New York City and organizing multiple esports events across North America in 2025. It’s aimed at enhancing the company’s presence and long-term investment in the US esports scene.
Which esports events are planned for 2025?
BLAST will host at least five events, including a Counter-Strike 2 Major in Austin, Texas, and a Fortnite Pro-Am in Los Angeles. More events could be revealed as the year progresses.
Why did BLAST choose New York City for its US hub?
New York offers strategic advantages in media, partnerships, and talent. The city serves as a central hub for coordinating events, content production, and brand integration with the local esports ecosystem.
How is BLAST involving content creators?
BLAST aims to collaborate with US-based creators to co-develop content, host livestreams, and make appearances during live events. This is designed to boost engagement and keep fans connected between tournaments.
Is the US the only region BLAST is expanding into?
No. In addition to North America, BLAST expanded into India in early 2025 through a partnership with RISE, showing a global approach to esports market development.
Sources to this article
BLAST (2025). Tournament organiser BLAST unveils major US expansion. [Online] Available at: https://csdonkey.com/esports-tournaments-news/tournament-organiser-blast-unveils-major-us-expansion/
BLAST (2025). RISE and BLAST announce India expansion partnership. [Online] Available at: https://csdonkey.com/esports-tournaments-news/blast-expands-to-india-via-partnership-with-rise/
Matlock, L. (2025). Interview on North America expansion. [Quoted in CSDonkey Newsroom].
