The StarLadder CS2 Major is officially locked in for November 2025, marking a monumental moment for Counter-Strike 2 and its global esports scene. Hosted by renowned tournament organizer StarLadder, this second Major of 2025 promises an electrifying experience, uniting 32 top-tier teams and thousands of fans at the heart of Budapest. With a $1.25 million prize pool and a return to fan-first event philosophy, the StarLadder CS2 Major is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated esports tournaments of the year.
StarLadder’s CEO, Roma Romantsov, has emphasized a new vision for live-viewing and engagement, blending competition with an immersive spectator experience. From MTK Sportpark to the grand MVM Dome, every stage of the event has been carefully designed to elevate CS2 esports to new heights.
Iconic return of StarLadder’s tournament legacy
Having previously hosted the legendary 2019 Major, StarLadder is returning in full force. Now with Counter-Strike 2 at the center, the StarLadder CS2 Major brings the company’s expertise into the modern era of esports tournaments. With a reputation for top-tier tournament production and global reach, StarLadder aims to recapture that original magic while innovating for today’s competitive scene.
Roma Romantsov, CEO of StarLadder, stated that the Budapest Major is about “pushing boundaries and making history once again with Counter-Strike 2.” It’s a powerful return to form—one with higher stakes, broader fan outreach, and a deeper connection to the evolving CS2 meta and community.
Budapest transforms into the CS2 capital this November
From November 24 to December 14, 2025, Budapest becomes the epicenter of Counter-Strike 2 esports. For the first time, early stages of the StarLadder CS2 Major will be open to live audiences—an exciting shift from past formats. The MTK Sportpark welcomes fans for the first three stages (Nov 24 to Dec 7), emphasizing community presence and intimacy.
The action then ascends to the futuristic MVM Dome, boasting a 20,000-seat capacity to host the high-stakes Playoffs from December 11 to 14. The tournament’s dynamic venue plan marries grassroots energy with arena-sized grandeur, ensuring all 32 teams get the limelight they deserve throughout the event.
A $1.25 million prize pool raises competitive tension
Make no mistake—the stakes are high. The StarLadder CS2 Major isn’t just another esports tournament; it’s a career-defining battleground for some of the best players in the world. With $1.25 million on the line and the prestige of becoming CS2 Major champions, teams are already prepping for the meta shifts and recalibrations that define post-update phases of Counter-Strike 2.
Esports fans can expect intense rivalries, breakout rookies, and unpredictable matchups, all amplified by the unique structure that StarLadder has introduced. It’s not just about the prize pool—it’s about legacy, momentum, and the honor of being immortalized in the CS2 Major record books.
Enhanced live fan experience and accessibility
Unlike previous Majors where early matches took place behind closed doors, the StarLadder CS2 Major is opening all stages to the public—offering fans the rare chance to witness qualifier thrills, underdog stories, and group-stage drama live in real time. This bold move supports StarLadder’s commitment to fan inclusion and marks a progressive direction for CS2 event planning.
Tickets are already on sale, inviting global esports enthusiasts to witness the excitement firsthand. StarLadder is going beyond just broadcasting; they’re creating an immersive environment where fans—from Budapest to around the world—truly feel like participants in each clutch, eco round, and explosive retake.
Roma Romantsov’s vision for the future of CS2 esports
Roma Romantsov isn’t just organizing another tournament—he’s setting a precedent for how CS2 events should be run. He’s vocal about StarLadder’s ambition to reshape the standard for player-fan engagement. “We want to make this the most memorable CS2 Major in the community’s history,” he said, reinforcing the message that this Major won’t follow the old playbook.
This initiative also reflects growing industry trends: live audience integration at early stages, regional expansion to Central Europe, and heavy investment in event infrastructure. The StarLadder CS2 Major, nestled in the heart of Budapest, is designed not only for competition—but also for celebration, evolution, and the future of esports.
The road to the MVM Dome – format and timeline
The format will span multiple stages: a qualification phase, a group stage, and a final playoff bracket. With the progression spread across three weeks, teams will need both endurance and adaptability—especially with any future meta shifts within Counter-Strike 2’s ecosystem likely to occur ahead of the Major.
This structure encourages teams to leverage smart strategies, analyze shifting meta-data, and prepare counters for their fiercest international competitors. Fans should expect constant strategic evolution, especially during the MTK Sportpark stage, which will spotlight rising stars before the top squads head to the MVM Dome for the final battle.
StarLadder CS2 Major: what’s at stake for the pro scene?
Aside from the prize money, this Major is key to determining future team rankings and sponsorship potentials heading into 2026. For orgs and players alike, performing well at the Budapest Major could secure long-term deals, attract top-tier talent, or even resurrect former juggernauts looking to rise in the CS2 competitive ladder.
Budapest isn’t just hosting a competition—it’s hosting opportunity. When top-ranked teams clash for glory and underdogs aim to shock the world, reputations will be rewritten, and leaderboard narratives reshaped.
Frequently asked questions about StarLadder CS2 Major (FAQ)
What is the StarLadder CS2 Major?
It’s the second official Counter-Strike 2 Major tournament of 2025, organized by StarLadder and featuring 32 elite teams competing for a $1.25 million prize pool.
When and where is the StarLadder CS2 Major happening?
The event runs from November 24 to December 14, 2025. It begins at the MTK Sportpark and concludes at the MVM Dome in Budapest, Hungary.
Will fans be able to attend the early stages?
Yes! For the first time in Major history, all stages—including the first three weeks—will be open to a live audience.
Who is Roma Romantsov?
Roma Romantsov is the CEO of StarLadder and the visionary behind the 2025 Budapest CS2 Major. He’s committed to delivering a memorable and fan-focused experience.
How can I purchase tickets for the event?
Tickets are already available for purchase via StarLadder’s official site and partnered event platforms.
Sources to this article
- Valve Corporation (2024). Counter-Strike 2 Official Announcements. https://www.counter-strike.net
- StarLadder. (2024). “Budapest Major Press Release.” https://www.starladder.com
- Romantsov, R. (2024). Interview on CS2 Majors and Future Plans. Esports Insider.
- Event Details Provided via Internal Research and csdonkey.com Editorial Access.
