StarLadder returns to hosting a CS2 Major, and this time the tournament will take place in the heart of Europe — Budapest. From November 24 to December 14, 2025, sixteen teams will battle for $1,170,000 and the title of Major champion. Below is a full guide to the tournament: the format of all stages, prize pool distribution, and the key reasons why you should follow the event.
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Format StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 — Stage1
The first stage of the tournament is a classic Swiss system, where teams play matches based on their current win–loss record. The format includes opening matches played as bo1, adding pressure for favorites, while elimination and qualification matches are played as bo3. This ensures a balance between unpredictability and competitive fairness.
Out of 16 teams, only 8 advance to the next stage. The Swiss Stage will take place from November 24 to 27 and will determine which teams can continue their path toward the trophy and which ones will be eliminated early. This is the stage where the first Major surprises appear and where early sensations are born.
Format StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 — Stage2
The second stage is a Single Elimination playoff, where every match has decisive importance. The teams that pass the Swiss Stage enter the quarterfinals, scheduled for November 29 to December 2. All matches in this phase are bo3, allowing teams to showcase their full arsenal of tactics and maps.
This stage is characterized by high pace, strong pressure, and true championship spirit. One bad day can destroy months of preparation, while one brilliant performance can place a team one step away from the Grand Final. This is where the lineup for the final stage is determined.
Format StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 — Stage3
The third and final stage begins on December 13, featuring only the strongest remaining teams. Matches are played as bo3 again, but the pressure reaches its peak — victory opens the doors to the biggest match of the year.
The Grand Final will take place on December 14 at 19:00 CEST and will be played in a best-of-5 format. This is the most demanding type of series in Counter-Strike 2, testing physical, psychological, and tactical endurance. This is where the new Major champion will be determined — the team that will not only take home $500,000 but also enter CS2 history.
Prize Pool Distribution
The prize pool of StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 amounts to $1,170,000, and every team receives a share regardless of the final result. The champion traditionally takes the largest payout, but every placement matters — even an early exit guarantees a substantial reward. The distribution is as follows:
- 1st place: $500,000
- 2nd place: $170,000
- 3rd–4th: $80,000
- 5th–8th: $45,000
- 9th–16th: $20,000
- 17th–24th: $10,000
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Why Watch StarLadder Budapest Major 2025
This tournament is not just another S-Tier event. It is the first Major hosted by StarLadder in many years, held in a new country with an updated invitation system. Many top teams enter the season with significant roster changes, promising unexpected discoveries and spectacular matches.
Additionally, the Budapest Major will play a key role in shaping future rankings and invitations, and it will define who becomes the top favorite entering 2026. If you want to witness maximum emotions, dramatic comebacks, new legends, and true championship-level Counter-Strike — this Major is not to be missed.
