Intel Extreme Masters Cologne Major 2026

Stage 1 (June 2nd – 5th, 2026)

• Format: 16-team Swiss System.
• Match Rules: * Elimination and Advancement matches are Best of 3 (Bo3).
• Opening and mid-tier matches are Best of 1 (Bo1).
• Outcome: Top 8 teams advance to Stage 2; bottom 8 teams are eliminated.

Stage 2 (June 6th – 9th, 2026)

• Format: 16-team Swiss System (8 qualifiers from Stage 1 + 8 invited/seeded teams).
• Match Rules: * Elimination and Advancement matches are Best of 3 (Bo3).
• All other matches are Best of 1 (Bo1).
• Outcome: Top 8 teams advance to Stage 3; bottom 8 teams are eliminated.

Stage 3 (June 11th – 15th, 2026)

• Format: 16-team Swiss System.
• Match Rules: All matches in this stage are Best of 3 (Bo3) to ensure the highest competitive integrity.
• Outcome: The final top 8 teams proceed to the Playoffs; remaining teams are eliminated.

The Playoffs (June 18th – 21st, 2026)

• Venue: The legendary LANXESS Arena.
• Bracket: Single-Elimination (no second chances).
• Match Rules: * Quarterfinals and Semifinals are Best of 3 (Bo3).
• The Grand Final is a definitive Best of 5 (Bo5) marathon to crown the Major Champion.