IEM esports news
by Ciaran Jackman in
eSports Betting News

ESL has announced the highly anticipated Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) Melbourne 2025, set to take place from April 21-27, with the playoffs hosted live at the prestigious Rod Laver Arena from April 25-27.

Sixteen of the world’s best Counter-Strike 2 teams will compete for a US$300,000 prize pool and crucial points towards qualifying for the BLAST Austin Major.

This marks the return of IEM to Australia after a brief hiatus in 2024.

The last Australian IEM event, IEM Sydney 2023, drew over 20,000 fans, and organisers expect IEM Melbourne 2025 to surpass this milestone.

Last year, Melbourne hosted ESL Challenger Melbourne, which was won by MIBR, but this upcoming event promises to elevate Australian esports to new heights.

“The Australian crowd consistently brings something special to our Counter-Strike events,” Marc Winther, ESL FACEIT Group’s Director of Game Ecosystems for Counter-Strike, said in a statement.

“The energy, enthusiasm, and passion in the arena resonate globally. After years of planning, we’re thrilled to finally bring this world-class competition to Melbourne.”

The event was originally slated for 2020 but faced postponements due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since then, Melbourne has established itself as a hub for esports, hosting ESL Challenger and DreamHack events, but IEM Melbourne 2025 is set to be the city’s biggest esports spectacle yet.

The event is expected to attract thousands of fans from around the world, providing a significant economic boost to Melbourne.

“Hosting one of the biggest esports tournaments ever seen in Australia is a testament to Melbourne’s world-class venues and vibrant culture,” Steve Dimopoulos, Australia’s Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, said.

“The atmosphere will be electric as fans and competitors fill our city, and the event will contribute immensely to our economy.”


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