Due to the relocation of the legendary IEM Katowice to Kraków, the CS2 community is actively discussing this decision. This news piece compiles opinions from professional players, analysts, and fans expressed on social media and forums. The news is being updated.

James Banks, a well-known tournament host and interviewer, also commented on the move of IEM Katowice to Kraków. He acknowledged the historical significance of Katowice for esports but expressed confidence that the time for such a step has come:

Katowice has a rich history, its legendary in esports but it does feel like its the right time for this move. That Krakow venue is impressive and will be able to fit more fans as well, interesting to see how it will turn out.

360 stage ??

James Banks

French insider neL shared his perspective on the significance of this decision. He emphasized the importance of Spodek for the history of IEM Katowice and expressed enthusiasm about the prospects of a new chapter in Kraków:

The end of a legendary place with the Spodek in Katowice. The start of a new epic chapter in Krakow with the Tauron Arena. +15k seats, gonna be huge!

neL

Former professional player Kenny "kennyS" Schrub, one of the legends of the CS world, shared his thoughts on the tournament's move to Kraków. He noted the historical significance of Katowice for esports but also highlighted that the change is happening at the right moment:

Katowice is history, I feel like it’s the good timing to move on to something else. Truly a legendary city and arena that will forever remain in every CS’ fans memories. One of my deepest regret is reaching the final in an empty arena.

Kenny "kennyS" Schrub  

Dan "apEX" Madesclaire, who finally claimed his first victory at IEM Katowice this year after 11 years of competing, commented on the news of the tournament's move to Kraków:

Glad we won the last one.

Dan "apEX" Madesclaire

Spanish commentator Luis "Pitu" Herranz, who covered two majors in 2024, commented on the tournament's move from Katowice to Kraków:

ESL announces that IEM Katowice concluded in 2025 after nearly 20 years of history. From now on, Krakow will be the host city for this event. Of course, Spodek might have become too small, but we will miss it.

Luis "Pitu" Herranz

Commentator and analyst Sudhen "Bleh" Wahengbam also shared his thoughts on the tournament's move to Kraków:

While I love Krakow and believe it's the better location, I'm gonna miss the Spodek and the wierd charm of Kato. And ofc no more Masala House (real ones know).

Sudhen "Bleh" Wahengbam

Reddit Reaction

On Reddit, the news of replacing IEM Katowice with IEM Krakow sparked lively discussions. Users shared their opinions on the changes, noting both positive and emotional aspects of this decision. Here are some examples of their reactions.

User skomeros noted the advantages of the new venue:

Good decision. Krakow is by far better place to visit and a lot of things to see in the city. We had a PGL major already here and was great to meet fer buying beers XD

skomeros

User Greedy_Drawer expressed mixed feelings about the changes:

Definitely good for the tournament, but still sad to see the cathedral of counter strike move on.

Greedy_Drawer

IEM Krakow has replaced IEM Katowice, which will now be held in winter, but in Kraków at the Tauron Arena. The tournament will take place from January 27 to February 8. More details about the tournament announcement can be found in our special article.