Skyesports has officially cancelled Masters 2025 and all Tier 1 CS2 events for 2026, shifting focus to grassroots and Tier 2 development in Indian and South Asian esports.
In a major shake-up for the regional esports scene, Skyesports has announced the cancellation of the highly anticipated Skyesports Masters 2025 and all future Tier 1 Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) events. The Masters 2025 was set to run from November 10 to 16, featuring 20 teams and a $150,000 prize pool. However, the organization has now pivoted to a long-term strategy focused on building a stronger foundation for emerging talent.
Why the Skyesports Masters 2025 Was Cancelled
Skyesports cited the need for long-term sustainability and growth in the CS2 ecosystem as the main reason behind the cancellation.
After previous disruptions like the cancellation of the September and November 2025 events and technical issues at the 2024 Championship, the organisation is rethinking its approach. Instead of focusing on high-profile Tier 1 tournaments, Skyesports will now invest in Tier 2 and grassroots competitions to create more accessible pathways for up-and-coming teams.
Update regarding our Tier 1 Counter Strike 2 events: pic.twitter.com/fB6ABQeidn
— Skyesports (@skyesportsintl) October 7, 2025
New Focus: Tier 2 and Grassroots Development
The shift aims to address a major gap in the Indian and South Asian esports landscape, lack of consistent opportunities for lesser-known teams to grow. By supporting Tier 2 tournaments, Skyesports hopes to empower new squads with regular competition, visibility, and a realistic path to reach the top tier.
This strategy is not about stepping back; it’s about building stronger from the ground up. As Shiva Nandy, founder of Skyesports, said: “Sometimes stepping back is the key to moving forward stronger. We’ve learned, adapted, and are building the future of Counter-Strike 2 from the ground up.”
Chennai Esports Global Championship: The New Flagship
The first major step in this new direction is the Chennai Esports Global Championship (CEGC), a CS2 event co-hosted with the Government of Tamil Nadu. This Tier 2-focused tournament will take place from November 7 to 9, 2025, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium.
Six teams will qualify through regional qualifiers in India, Southeast Asia, and Europe—two from each region. The CEGC is more than just a tournament; it’s a pilot for state-supported esports in India, aiming to set a new standard for inclusive, community-driven competition.
All in all, while fans may miss the spectacle of Masters 2025, Skyesports’ decision reflects a deeper commitment to the future of CS2. With the Chennai Esports Global Championship leading the charge, the organisation is laying the groundwork for long-term success.