Texas’ Moody Center to host Blast.TV Counter-Strike Major in June 2025

Esports are about to hit Austin in a big way.

The University of Texas’ Moody Center is set to host next year’s Blast.TV Counter-Strike Major in June 2025. One of the biggest esports events of the year, teams from around the world will be competing for glory, pride and a $1.25 million prize pool.

“We are incredibly excited to bring the BLAST.tv Major to Austin, Texas. The city’s dynamic atmosphere, the cutting-edge Moody Center and track record of hosting world-leading events provide the perfect setting for what promises to be an unforgettable event,” BLAST CEO Robbie Douek said in a press release. “We look forward to showcasing the best of esports to a global audience and making a positive impact on the local community.”

It’s been seven years since the United States hosted the Counter-Strike Major Championships, with the last one being in Boston. The event is broadcast worldwide, drawing in 50,000+ fans and millions more tuning in from 150+ territories and broadcast in 28 languages. 

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What is Counter-Strike: Global Offensive?

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is a multiplayer first-person shooter video game developed by Hidden Path Entertainment and Valve, and is the fourth game in the Counter-Strike series. The first Major sponsored by Valve was held back in 2013 in Sweden. While there are other tournaments for the game, the Major is considered the most prestigious among esports fans.

“We are thrilled that Austin has been selected to host the BLAST.tv Austin Major, one of the biggest esports events in the world. Austin is the perfect place to showcase the esports industry and the technology at the heart of the competition,” Austin Mayor Kirk Watson said in a press release.