The StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 is set to make waves in the esports world with a groundbreaking change to its Grand Final format. For the first time in Counter-Strike Major history, the Grand Final will be determined through a best-of-five series. This decision marks a significant shift in how champions are crowned, aligning the Major with other premier tournaments.
The Grand Final Evolution
Announced on November 4th, 2025, this change comes after the community’s persistent calls for a format update to match other top-tier events. Tournament organizers such as ESL, BLAST, and FISSURE have long embraced the extended series format, with the Thunderpick World Championship 2025 featuring a dramatic comeback by FURIA against NAVI.
Starting with the Budapest Major, all future Counter-Strike Majors will adopt this best-of-five format for their Grand Finals. This major shift indicates a willingness to innovate and enhance the competitive structure of Counter-Strike’s most prestigious events. Previously, the decisive matches were limited to a best-of-three showdown.
Stage and Arena Innovations
StarLadder also unveiled the stage design for the event at the MVM Dome from December 11th to 14th. The 20,000-seat arena will boast a 360-degree stage, ensuring all attendees have an optimal view of the intense action.
Community Reaction
The community has responded with enthusiasm to the introduction of best-of-five Grand Finals. Fans have expressed excitement over this “big step forward,” while also encouraging Valve to continue refining the Major format. The persistence of best-of-one matches in the group stage has sparked further debate, with some advocating for their removal to enhance the competitive experience.
This move towards best-of-five Grand Finals signifies a positive development for Counter-Strike Majors, and it remains to be seen how Valve will continue to evolve the tournament structure in the future.