Top 5 Esports Events by Prize Money: 2025–2026
Esports is getting bigger each year. Prize pools are soaring, and 2025–2026 will be record-breaking. Let’s break down the top 5 Esports tournaments ranked by prize money and detail when and where they’ll take place. Top 5 Esports Events by Prize Money: 2025–2026.
1. Esports World Cup – $70M+ (2025 & 2026)
The Esports World Cup in Riyadh is the richest event in gaming history. In 2025, it boasts a $70 million prize pool across 25 different titles, including Valorant, Dota 2, PUBG Mobile, and Street Fighter.
- Dates (2025): July 7 – August 24
- Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Highlights: 1,500+ players, global teams, and over eight weeks of high-stakes matches.
The event will return in July 2026 with an expected prize pool of over $75 million.
2. The International 2025 – $15M to $40M (Dota 2)
Valve’s The International remains a top-tier event. Crowdfunded through Dota 2’s in-game purchases, its prize pool typically surpasses $30 million.
- Dates: September 4 – 14, 2025
- Location: Hamburg, Germany
- Format: Group stage + double-elimination playoffs
In 2026, it may return to Asia or North America with a similar format and payout.
3. Valorant Champions 2025 – $2.25M
Riot Games is scaling Valorant’s global league. The Champions 2025 finale offers $2.25 million.
- Dates: September 12 – October 5, 2025
- Location: Paris, France
- Structure: Group play, playoffs, and a live stadium final
This is the climax of Riot’s VCT season and a major draw for FPS fans worldwide.
4. PUBG Mobile World Cup – $3M
As mobile gaming grows, so do its tournaments. The PMWC 2025 comes with a $3 million prize pool.
- Dates: July 25 – August 3, 2025
- Location: Riyadh, within the Esports World Cup
- Teams: 24 international squads battle in a battle royale format
It’s one of the biggest mobile esports events ever held.
5. CS2 Majors & IEM Events – $1.25M Each
Counter-Strike 2 continues to lead in competitive FPS.
- BLAST Major Austin 2025: June 3 – 22, $1.25M
- IEM Katowice 2025: January 29 – February 9, $1.25M
- Future Events (2026): PGL Majors in Cluj-Napoca and Bucharest will also offer $1.25M each
These tournaments are key stops on the CS2 calendar, drawing global audiences and elite rosters.
These five events will dominate headlines through 2025 and 2026. With rising prize money and worldwide attention, the future of esports looks massive.