If you follow competitive Counter-Strike, you know the names: s1mple, dev1ce, karrigan. These aren’t just players – they’re era‑defining icons. And for the first time in years, none of them will be at a Major. The qualifiers just wrapped, and the results have shaken the entire CS2 community.
1. The Main Event: Three Legends, Zero Tickets
FaZe Clan’s streak: 10 consecutive Major appearances, dating back to 2016. Gone. “End of an era” – that’s not hyperbole. These three players have defined CS:GO and CS2 competitive history. Their absence from Cologne will be felt by fans, analysts, and the tournament itself.
2. The Full 32-Team Lineup – Stage by Stage
Unlike previous years, Valve used a VRS (Valve Ranking System) points system to determine invites. Teams were then assigned to one of three stages based on their ranking. The lower the stage, the more matches you need to win to reach the playoffs.
Here’s the complete list of all qualified teams for IEM Cologne Major 2026:
Note: Stage 1 teams include the last minute qualifiers like SINNERS (EU) and THUNDER DOWNUNDER (APAC) – two squads nobody expected to see at the Major.
3. How the Tournament Stages Work
The Major will run from June 2 to June 21, with three distinct stages:
Key takeaway: Teams in Stage 1 have to win three matches just to reach Stage 2. Stage 3 teams (like Vitality and NAVI) are already halfway to the playoffs.
4. The Deciding Match: FaZe vs. BIG – HLC Belgrade Pro Grand Final
This was the last real chance for FaZe to punch their ticket. They faced BIG in the grand final of HLC Belgrade Pro. Winner goes to Cologne. Loser watches from home.
Result: BIG won. Score: Not even close – BIG dominated across three maps. FaZe looked lost. karrigan’s calls didn’t land. The firepower that once made them a superteam just… wasn’t there.
5. Surprises and Storylines to Watch
- SINNERS (Stage 1) – the European underdog that snatched the final slot. Can they replicate B8’s miracle run?
- THUNDER DOWNUNDER – first Australian team in a Major since Grayhound? They could become crowd favorites.
- BIG – after eliminating FaZe, they have momentum. Watch for them in Stage 1.
- Team Liquid & MIBR – both made it, but both are in Stage 1. NA and Brazil will be watching nervously.
- No s1mple, no dev1ce, no karrigan – who becomes the new face of the Major? Possibly donk (Spirit) or ZywOo (Vitality).
⭐ Verdict from the BuyCarry Team
This is the most shocking Major qualification round in years.
- FaZe’s fall – karrigan has been the heart of that team. Without him at the Major, the tournament feels wrong. But that’s sports. Dynasties end.
- s1mple – still the GOAT in many eyes, but his team hasn’t been competitive. He needs a better roster around him if he wants another Major trophy.
- dev1ce – quietly struggling with consistency. The 100 Thieves project hasn’t worked out as planned.
The silver lining: New teams, new stories, new legends. SINNERS and THUNDER DOWNUNDER are now on the biggest stage. That’s exciting.
For our clients: Expect more ranked grinders in CS2 over the next few weeks. If you want to climb before the Major starts, book a session. Our boosters know the current meta inside out – and we’re not missing any Majors.
🎮 Our CS2 Services
- 🏆 CS2 Rank Boost – Climb the ladder fast while the competitive hype is at its peak
- 🎓 CS2 Coaching – Learn from top players how to play like the legends (or better)
- ⚔️ CS2 Placement Matches – Secure your optimal rank before the Major begins
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- Q1: When is the IEM Cologne Major 2026?
A: June 2–21, 2026. Stage 1 begins June 2, playoffs start June 17. - Q2: Why didn’t FaZe qualify?
A: They lost to BIG in the grand final of HLC Belgrade Pro – the last meaningful qualifier. Their VRS points were also insufficient for a direct invite. - Q3: Is s1mple retired?
A: No. He’s still playing for BC.Game. But the team didn’t accumulate enough VRS points to qualify. - Q4: Can any of these teams still get a last‑minute invite?
A: No. The 32‑team field is locked. No more spots. - Q5: How does this affect CS2 ranked play?
A: Major seasons always boost player activity. More people playing = more competition = more demand for boosting and coaching. - Q6: Will BuyCarry offer CS2 boosts during the Major?
A: Yes. We’re ramping up our CS2 services specifically for the Major window. Contact us for rank boosts, placement matches, and coaching.