Tournament organizer PGL has officially unveiled the key logistical details for its upcoming PGL Astana 2026 event, setting the stage for another major esports spectacle in Kazakhstan`s capital. The announcement, made via the organizer`s social channels, confirms the timeline and, perhaps more notably, a significant upgrade to the tournament`s financial stakes.
Scheduled to take place from May 7th to May 18th, 2026, the event will return to a familiar setting. PGL Astana 2026 is slated to be held at the Barys Arena, the same venue that hosted the PGL Astana 2025 competition. This large arena boasts a capacity of up to 12,000 spectators, providing a substantial stage for live esports action.
However, the most striking piece of information is the confirmed prize pool. PGL Astana 2026 will feature a total prize fund of a staggering $1.6 million. This represents a massive increase compared to the $625,000 prize pool offered at PGL Astana 2025, signaling a clear intent to elevate the tournament`s prestige and attract top-tier competition. It seems someone found a considerably larger vault since the last visit.
The field for the tournament will consist of 16 teams. Twelve of these coveted spots will be allocated based on the Valve Regional Standings (VRS) points, rewarding consistent performance throughout the competitive season. The remaining four spots will be fiercely contested through open and closed qualification routes, ensuring opportunities for emerging talent and established teams alike to earn their place on the grand stage.
The decision to return to Astana and substantially increase the prize pool indicates PGL`s commitment to establishing the city as a key location on the global esports circuit. Following the success of the 2025 event, which saw Team Spirit claim victory over Astralis in the final, anticipation will undoubtedly build for what promises to be an even larger and more impactful tournament in 2026. The boosted prize pool alone guarantees the stakes will be exceptionally high from the very first match.
