The International 2026 (TI15) returns to Shanghai for its fifteenth edition, the first time since 2019, signaling a massive “homecoming” for Chinese Dota. As the season’s crowning event, expect elite rivalries and nonstop action as the world’s best teams fight for the Aegis of Champions.

In this guide, you will find all the details about The International 2026, including the schedule, format, teams, prize pool, and ticket information.

Editor’s Note: This page is a stub. Information regarding The International 2026 is limited, and we will continue updating it as more details become available.

Latest The International 2026 News

• Valve confirmed that Shanghai will host The International 2026.
• Valve released a Request for Proposals (RFPs) from broadcast partners. The official cast will be available in English, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish.

The International 2026 Location & Dates

The International 2026 is scheduled to take place from August 13–23, 2026, at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai, China.

The International 2026 Schedule & Format

The International 2026 schedule and format have not been announced yet.

Usually, TI events feature a Swiss-style Group Stage and Elimination Round (branded as The Road to The International) and a double-elimination bracket Playoffs structure (the Main Event). We will update this section as more information becomes available.

Note: For more specific match fixtures, you can refer to the official Dota 2 website. 

Prize Pool Distribution

The total prize pool for The International 2026 hasn’t been determined yet.

In 2023, Valve announced that it would move away from the traditional Battle Pass crowdfunding model that once powered The International to record-breaking prize pools.

Instead, TI is now funded through a fixed base prize pool of $1.6 million alongside 30% of in-game Supporter and Talent Bundle sales, putting the final total at an estimated $2.6–$2.9 million.

Teams Competing At The International 2026

Valve has not yet revealed the list of teams competing at The International 2026.

Similar to past events, TI15 is expected to feature eight Direct Invites based on season-long performance and eight Regional Qualifiers. Each region will receive the following number of slots: North America (1), South America (1), Western Europe (2), Eastern Europe (1), China (1), and Southeast Asia (2). 

How To Watch The International 2026

The International 2026 will be broadcast live on Twitch and YouTube, with official simulcasts available in four languages: English, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish. The games are also watchable directly in the Dota 2 client via the “Watch > Tournaments” tab.

Valve has invited formal broadcast proposals from Russian and Spanish partners, while other regional broadcasters may apply for a commercial license without receiving official event access. Independent casters are free to stream the event without prior approval, provided they adhere to non-commercial guidelines.

FAQs

When and where will The International 2026 take place?

The International 2026 will be held at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai, China, from August 13–23, 2026. 

What is the prize pool for The International 2026?

The International 2026 prize pool has not been announced yet. 

How can I watch The International 2026?

The International 2026 will be streamed live on Twitch and YouTube, with official broadcasts available in English, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish. Matches can also be watched directly in the Dota 2 client via Watch > Tournaments.

Where can I purchase tickets for The International 2026?

Tickets to attend The International 2026 are not available yet.

Who won The International 2025 (TI 2025)?

Team Falcons claimed the Aegis of Champions by defeating the Chinese powerhouse Xtreme Gaming in a thrilling 3–2 Grand Final series in Hamburg, Germany.

References

1. The International 2026 Live Event Broadcast RFP and Broadcast License Requests (Dota 2)
2. Dota News and Updates (Dota 2)
3. Dota 2 – The International: Bundles and Predictions (Dota 2)
4. dota2ti (Twitch)
5. dota2 (YouTube)