The second big event of the year is IEM Krakow 2026, and it will run from January 28 to February 8. Eight teams have direct invites to the Main Stage, while sixteen others will battle in Stage 1 for the remaining spots. Stage 1 takes place from January 28 to 30.
PARIVISION is one of the teams in Stage 1. After winning BLAST Bounty 2026, many expect them to move forward. Fans will be watching to see if their win marks the start of a winning streak or was just a single standout moment.
The tournament has a $1.25 million prize pool, which will be shared between clubs and players. Here’s a look at the tournament format, the teams taking part, and the schedule for the first matches.
Contents
IEM Krakow 2026 Tournament Format
Stage 1
- Double-Elimination bracket
- All matches are Bo3
- The top eight teams advance to the Group Stage
Main Stage, Group Stage
- Two double-elimination format (GSL) Groups
- Each group has eight teams
- All matches are Bo3
- The top three teams from each group advance to the Playoffs:
- Group stage winners advance to the Semifinals
- Group stage runners-up advance to the Quarterfinals as the High Seeds
- Group stage 3rd place teams advance to the Quarterfinals as the Low Seeds
Playoff Stage
- Single-Elimination bracket
- All matches are Bo3
- The Grand Final is Bo5
Teams Stage 1 & Stage 2
Stage 1 Teams
| PARIVISION | G2 |
| 3DMAX | Liquid |
| Aurora | Passion UA |
| paiN | B8 |
| Astralis | GamerLegion |
| HEROIC | Legacy |
| FUT | Ninjas in Pyjamas |
| NRG | BC.Game |
Main Stage Teams
| Vitality | FURIA |
| Spirit | Falcons |
| FaZe | TheMongolZ |
| Natus Vincere | MOUZ |
IEM Krakow 2026 Stage 1 Opening Matches Schedule
January 28
- Aurora vs. GamerLegion and HEROIC vs. PARIVISION starting at 11:00 CET
- Astralis vs. paiN and NRG vs. B8 starting at 13:30 CET
- Legacy vs. BC.Game and FUT vs. 3DMAX starting at 16:00 CET
- Liquid vs. Ninjas in Pyjamas and Passion UA vs. G2 starting at 18:30 CET
How to Watch IEM Krakow 2026
The IEM Krakow 2026 will be streamed live for viewers worldwide. You can enjoy every thrilling moment at home, at work, or on the go.
There will be official Twitch, YouTube streams:
- IEM Krakow 2026 Official Twitch Primary Stream
- IEM Krakow 2026 Official YouTube Stream
- IEM Krakow 2026 Official Twitch Secondary Stream
Keep up with our coverage for more insights on the latest esports news and updates.
