So, it looks like we’re finally getting rid of BO1s at the Major.

No, wait - it’s just in Stage 3.

No, wait - it’s just in Stage 3 of the IEM Cologne Major 2026.

Better than nothing, right?

ESL has announced that all matches in Stage 3 of its summer Major will now be played as a best-of-three series, removing every BO1 in this phase of the competition.

We’re not sure if we missed something, but it’s still unclear whether this is a permanent format change or just a one-off. Either way, feel free to enlighten us.

On one hand, this is great news.

It’s the most decisive stage at the most important event of the year. Having BO1s never quite made sense. Single maps can be entertaining, but they rarely reflect a team’s true level. Especially not in MR12.

Also, as some of you might not know - because you actually have lives and better things to do - Major Playoffs seeding is based on Stage 3 placement. That means BO1 volatility can directly shape the bracket. And at the most prestigious stage in Counter-Strike, there should only be room for the very best.

On the other hand, there’s a slight bitter aftertaste to this announcement.

If you’re already removing BO1s from Stage 3, would it really be that much of a hassle to unify the format across all stages? More maps mean more event days and inevitably higher costs so… probably.

Still, when we’re talking about the biggest of leagues, wouldn’t that justify the investment? We don’t pretend to understand the full logistical complexity behind organising a Major, so we’ll leave the definitive answers to the Reddit experts.

Between the switch to a BO5 grand final at the StarLadder Budapest Major and now this adjustment, it does feel like Valve is actively refining the format. At least when it comes to this, we can’t say they haven’t listened to the community.

There’s a first time for everything.