The StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 Counter-Strike 2 tournament is set to conclude with an unprecedented best-of-five grand final, as three Brazilian teams prepare for the decisive third phase of the global competition.
This historic format change marks the first time a Counter-Strike Major will feature a championship match played in a best-of-five series, moving up from the previous best-of-three standard. The shift significantly raises the stakes for the teams vying for the title.
Brazilian esports organizations FURIA, Imperial, and paiN Gaming have advanced to this critical stage. They will begin their campaigns in the third phase on Thursday, December 4, competing for a spot in the playoffs.
The tournament’s grand final is scheduled for December 14. Prior to that, the playoffs will run from December 11 to December 13, determining which teams will face off in the extended championship series.
To reach the playoffs, teams in the third phase must secure three series victories. Initial matches in this stage are played in a best-of-one format.
The first round of matchups for the Brazilian teams on December 4 includes Imperial facing The Mongolz at 12:00 UTC. PaiN Gaming will challenge 3DMAX at 14:00 UTC, and FURIA will square off against Natus Vincere at 15:00 UTC.
Fans worldwide can follow the action through official StarLadder broadcasts on platforms such as Kick, Twitch, and YouTube. The organizer also provides access to official co-streams for broader coverage.