BLAST Premier Rivals S1 2026 Heads to Fort Worth with $1 Million Prize Pool

BLAST is bringing its biggest Counter Strike 2 spectacle back to Texas as the Premier Rivals S1 2026 event heads to Fort Worth’s iconic Dickies Arena. The high stakes international tournament will run from April 29 to May 3, 2026, featuring eight of the best CS2 teams from around the globe battling for prestige, pride, and a share of a massive one million dollar prize pool.

This will be one of the first major CS2 events of the year and is expected to set the tone for the global competitive scene. The tournament will begin with a double elimination group stage that filters down into a six team playoff bracket. From there, the action will only intensify, building up to a dramatic best of five grand final scheduled for May 3. The final three days of the tournament will be open to a live audience, promising an electrifying arena experience for fans attending in person.

BLAST’s return to Fort Worth highlights the city’s growing presence as a major hub for international esports. The Fort Worth Sports Commission has once again partnered with BLAST after the success of previous high profile events such as the 2024 Fortnite Championship Series Global Championship and the Rocket League World Championship. According to Cassie Poss, the Interim Executive Director of the Commission, the city is proud to continue building its esports legacy and offer fans a world class experience both inside and outside the venue.

Dickies Arena will host the majority of the competition, serving as a focal point for fans of Counter Strike 2. Known for its state of the art facilities and high capacity seating, the venue provides an immersive setting for a live esports audience. This move by BLAST is part of a broader initiative to bring esports events to physically and culturally significant cities across the United States and create deeper connections with regional fan bases.

Four teams will earn direct invites to the tournament based on top placements in the Valve Regional Standings, ensuring the presence of elite international contenders. The remaining four teams will fight their way in through competitive regional rankings from Europe, North America, South America, and Asia. This blend of top tier invites and regional representation creates an exciting mix of established powerhouses and rising stars.

Fans can expect a week filled with intense tactical gameplay, roaring crowd energy, and the kind of high octane moments that define Counter Strike at its best. As the tournament unfolds, rivalries will reignite and new champions may emerge, all under the lights of Fort Worth’s premier arena.

With BLAST Premier Rivals S1 2026 already shaping up to be a landmark event in the Counter Strike calendar, tickets are expected to sell fast. Whether you are a dedicated CS2 follower or a curious first timer, this is an event designed to showcase the full thrill of competitive esports on a grand stage.

For updates, team announcements, ticket info, and exclusive coverage, make sure to follow Gaming Moves on Instagram and Facebook.