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The International 2026
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
The International 2026 in Shanghai is down to eight teams, with the main event running August 20-23. The meta favors tanks, healing, and long games, so expect marathon matches.
Background
The International is Dota 2's annual world championship, featuring 16 teams. This year's event is held in Shanghai, China, after seven years. The group stage concluded with 109 games, and the main event at the Oriental Sports Center will determine the champion on August 23.
How it unfolded
- Aug 13, 2026 -16, 2026Swiss-style group stage held, cutting 16 teams down to eight.
- Aug 17, 2026Iron Wing swept GamerLegion 2-0 to qualify for playoffs; Nigma Galaxy upset Team Spirit 2-0.
- Aug 20, 2026Main event begins at Shanghai's Oriental Sports Center with double-elimination bracket.
- Aug 23, 2026Grand Finals scheduled, crowning the new champion.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- The meta is dominated by durable cores and healing, leading to longer games.
- Favorites
- Team Spirit and Team Falcons are seen as top contenders despite inconsistent seasons.