Dallas to host major $1M Counter Strike event as BLAST returns to Texas
According to Field Level Media, as cited by Deadspin, the BLAST Premier Rivals Fort Worth 2026 tournament is scheduled to take place from April 29 to May 3 at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, part of the Dallas Fort Worth metro area.
Event overview
The competition will feature eight internationally recognised teams, including Team Vitality, FURIA, NAVI, Astralis, G2, FaZe, GamerLegion and FUT. All will compete for a total prize pool of $1 million.
The tournament format begins with group stage matches before progressing to the decisive playoff rounds. The final three days will be played in front of a live audience.
North texas strengthens esports presence
The return of BLAST highlights North Texas’ continued emergence as a destination for large scale esports events.
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Field Level Media reports that BLAST previously organised the BLAST.tv Austin Major, while Dickies Arena has hosted other global competitions, including the Fortnite Championship Series Global Championship and the Rocket League World Championship in 2024.
Economic impact and industry growth
According to Field Level Media, which cited Angelou Economics, the Austin Major won by Team Vitality generated more than $102 million in economic impact.
That figure underscores the financial potential of major esports events for host cities, particularly as competitive gaming continues to expand its global audience.
A key moment for competitive counter strike
With a strong lineup of international teams and a significant prize pool, the Fort Worth event reflects the ongoing growth of Counter Strike as a leading esport.
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The return of live audiences for the final stages is expected to boost both local engagement and international visibility, reinforcing the Dallas Fort Worth area’s position on the global esports calendar.
Sources: Field Level Media
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