Key Takeaways
- The IEM Cologne Major Stage 3 BO3 format will feature all matches played as best-of-three series, confirmed by ESL for 2026.
- This format requires teams to win two maps to secure a victory, replacing previous single-map deciders.
- An additional competition day has been added to accommodate the longer matches in the IEM Cologne Major Stage 3 BO3 format.
- The tournament will take place in Cologne, Germany, with 32 teams competing for a $1,250,000 prize pool.
- Matches will be held live, and tickets are available for venues like the LANXESS Arena and Palladium.
The IEM Cologne Major Stage 3 BO3 format has been officially confirmed by ESL. All matches in Stage 3 of the IEM Cologne Major will now be played as best-of-three series. The update applies specifically to the third stage of the Counter-Strike Major tournament scheduled for 2026 in Cologne, Germany.
The decision changes how teams compete during this phase of the event. Previously, some Major stages included best-of-one matches. Under the new structure, every Stage 3 match will require two map wins to secure victory.
Structure of IEM Cologne Major Stage 3 BO3 Matches
The IEM Cologne Major Stage 3 BO3 format means each match can last up to three maps. A team must win two maps to advance or secure its result. This replaces single-map deciders in that stage.
Stage 3 is part of the multi-stage format used in the 32-team Major. Teams progress through earlier stages before reaching this phase. The playoffs that follow continue to use best-of-three series.
Because of the expanded match length in the IEM Cologne Major Stage 3 BO3 format, the tournament schedule has been adjusted. An additional competition day has been added to accommodate the increased number of maps.
Event Details Surrounding IEM Cologne Major Stage 3 BO3
The IEM Cologne Major 2026 will take place in Cologne, Germany. Matches will be held across multiple venues, including the LANXESS Arena. The tournament features 32 teams competing for a prize pool of $1,250,000.
Stage 3 matches will also be played in front of a live audience. Tickets have been made available for fans attending games at designated venues such as the Palladium.
The format update standardizes competition conditions within this stage of the Major. The IEM Cologne Major Stage 3 BO3 structure applies only to Stage 3 and does not alter earlier qualifying formats.
Source: https://esportsinsider.com/2026/02/esl-iem-cologne-major-stage-3-bo3
