Raleigh, North Carolina, will be the venue for one of the year's largest esports events – ESL One Raleigh 2025. Verification has confirmed that the tournament will indeed take place at the Raleigh Convention Center, with the event set for April 11-13, 2025. This three-day event will gather 12 top Dota 2 teams from around the world, and ticket sales will begin on November 28, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern Time (EST).

The Return of a Legendary Tournament

The organizer is ESL FACEIT Group (EFG) with the support of Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau and GRELOC. Raleigh was chosen as the venue due to strong support from local authorities, including the N.C. Esports Incentive Grant Fund. This highlights the city's growing significance as a hub for esports and technology.

The prize pool will be $1 million, and matches will be broadcast on Twitch and YouTube, ensuring global attention from millions of viewers.

The prize pool will be $1 million, and matches will be broadcast on Twitch and YouTube, ensuring millions of viewers worldwide.

Why Raleigh?

The decision to hold the tournament in Raleigh is largely due to the active support from local authorities. The N.C. Esports Incentive Grant Fund, introduced in 2021, has already proven effective in attracting major esports events to the state.

"Raleigh as a venue is simply incredible. The Visit Raleigh team shows the highest level of engagement, and we are thrilled to organize our event here," said ESL FACEIT Group's event organizing manager Jasha Braeker.

According to a report by PLAYHRDR Advisors, Raleigh is among the top five global destinations for major esports events, making the city an ideal platform for ESL One.

Comment from ESL Vice President

"We are excited to return to the USA and confident that Raleigh will become a global hub for the esports community, where a new ESL One champion will be crowned," commented ESL FACEIT Group's vice president Michael Van Dril.

Expectations and Prospects

The event promises to be iconic for the U.S. esports scene, attracting both fans and new investments to the region. Raleigh is ready to welcome the Dota 2 community and deliver a spectacular show of world-class caliber.