Get ready, Texas — Counter-Strike 2 is coming back in a big way. BLAST has officially announced that BLAST Premier Rivals 2026 will take place in Fort Worth from April 29 to May 3, bringing top-tier CS2 action to the Dickies Arena with $1M up for grabs in prize money and participation fees.
The event will feature eight elite teams from around the world, selected through the VRS — the same ranking system used for Major invites. Teams from Europe, the Americas, and Asia will all battle it out for regional pride and a piece of the prize pool.

For fans unfamiliar, BLAST Premier Rivals is a newer addition to the CS2 circuit, giving high-stakes international exposure to teams just outside the Major spotlight. It’s become a proving ground where rising contenders clash with established names in a format that still feels fresh and regional.
This isn’t just another stop on the calendar — it’s a massive statement for CS2’s growing footprint in North America. With the competitive ecosystem heating up in 2026 and VRS shaping more than just Major invites, every match will matter.