The IEM Cologne Major 2026 has now advanced to Stage 3, where the final 16 teams are vying for the last eight spots in the Playoffs. As these teams compete in the first Counter-Strike Major of the year, let’s take a look at the squads that garnered the most support from viewers during Stage 2.
Most popular IEM Cologne Major 2026 Stage 2 teams
Leading the pack is Team Spirit, with an impressive average of 401,285 viewers (AV) in Stage 2. This international esports team showed their dominance with a flawless 3:0 record, securing the second spot on the table and a spot in Stage 3. Their match against BB Team, a Russian showdown, peaked at 555,621 viewers, making it a standout moment in the tournament.
Read also: IEM Cologne Major 2026 bounces back in Stage 2, overtaking previous Major’s viewership pace
Following closely is G2 Esports, with an average viewership of 329,598 during Stage 2. This European esports team secured their spot in Stage 3 with a 3:1 record, only stumbling against FUT Esports. While their matches may not have reached the same peak viewership, G2 Esports consistently drew in thousands of viewers.
In third place is BB Team, also advancing to Stage 3 with a 3:1 record. Despite a loss to Team Spirit, BB Team garnered 317,445 AV in their four matches. This Russian team, starting in Stage 1, has already played seven series and is on track to potentially reach the Playoffs with more strong performances.
Read also: Why Counter-Strike and Valorant audiences look nothing alike
FUT Esports claimed the fourth spot with an average of 310,963 viewers per match in Stage 2. Their perfect 3:0 run was a highlight of the phase, including a crucial victory over G2 Esports to secure their spot in the next stage, sending a message to the teams in Stage 3.
Lastly, BIG attracted 268,559 AV across their five Stage 2 games. Despite a 2:3 record leading to elimination, their matches against top teams like G2 Esports, paiN Gaming, and B8 Esports drew a healthy audience, with their final game ranking as the second most popular series with 535,992 PV.
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Stage 3 of the IEM Cologne Major 2026 kicked off on June 11 and will continue until June 15. With 16 teams vying for eight spots in the Playoffs, Esports Charts will keep you updated on all the action in our news section.