ESL and Valve plan second 2022 CS:GO Major in Rio with new IEM branding and historic arena venue
Breaking: ESL Returns to Major Hosting with Rio 2022 Event
Valve has selected ESL to organize the second Counter-Strike: Global Offensive Major championship of 2022, with Brazil’s vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro confirmed as host location.
Multiple sources within the esports industry have confirmed to gaming publications that preliminary arrangements are being finalized for the IEM Rio Major, tentatively scheduled between October 31 and November 13. This development represents ESL’s comeback to premier Major tournament organization following a two-event hiatus where StarLadder and PGL managed the prestigious competitions.
From Postponement to Revival: The Rio Major’s Journey
ESL first signaled their intentions to bring a Major to Rio back in September, acknowledging the event was “under consideration with Valve for 2022.” This announcement followed the unfortunate cancellation of the originally planned ESL One: Rio Major in May 2020, which was first postponed then ultimately scrapped due to global health concerns and travel restrictions.
Practical Tip for Teams: Organizations planning to qualify should begin visa applications for Brazilian travel immediately, as processing times can extend several months. Brazilian esports visas typically require invitation letters from tournament organizers, so teams should maintain open communication with ESL regarding documentation requirements.
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