Valve used the grand finals of The International 2025 to deliver news that immediately electrified the Dota 2 community: Shanghai will host The International 2026.
The announcement, made by Gabe Newell, marks the tournament's return to China for the first time since 2019. Fans who still remember the iconic TI9 in Shanghai now have another reason to celebrate, as the event comes back to one of esports' most vibrant stages after a seven-year wait.
Before revealing the host city, Newell took a moment to thank Germany for its role in making TI 2025 such a success. He then shared the news in a short but impactful message, explaining that the event would be heading back to a previous location.
Moments later, the video confirmed Shanghai as the destination for next year's world championship. The timing was perfect, given that Xtreme Gaming, a Chinese powerhouse, was competing in the grand finals against Team Falcons, further emphasizing the significance of the announcement.
This decision comes at a moment when Chinese Dota 2 is showing clear signs of resurgence. Xtreme Gaming stormed through the group stage with a flawless 4-0 record and fought their way all the way to the grand finals, proving their place among the world's best. Team Tidebound, China's other representative, also made waves with a 4-1 group stage finish before bowing out in the playoffs at 7th-8th place.
Shanghai has already proven itself capable of delivering a world-class tournament. The International 2019, the first TI ever hosted in China, set new standards for esports events. That year, OG lifted their second consecutive Aegis after a 3-1 win over Team Liquid, and the tournament featured a staggering $34.3 million prize pool that still remains one of the biggest in esports history.
The atmosphere at the Mercedes-Benz Arena demonstrated the passion and dedication of the Chinese Dota 2 fanbase, leaving a lasting impression on players and viewers alike. Bringing the tournament back to Shanghai underscores Valve's commitment to keeping The International a truly global event. Over the years, the championship has traveled from Seattle and Vancouver to Singapore, Bucharest, and Copenhagen, each location adding its own flavor to the event.
By returning to China, Valve not only honors the success of TI9 but also recognizes the importance of the Asian market, where Dota 2 remains one of the most beloved esports.
For Chinese players and fans, it's a chance at redemption. With the region still chasing its first championship since Wings Gaming's historic 2016 win, TI 2026 will carry extra weight. Hosting the event on home soil gives teams like Xtreme Gaming and Team Tidebound added motivation to end the drought and lift the Aegis in front of their fans.
The wait since 2019 has been long, but Shanghai is ready once again to welcome the global Dota 2 community. With the city's proven track record as a premier esports hub and Chinese teams showing strong competitive form, The International 2026 is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated tournaments. For both local supporters and fans around the world, the countdown has officially begun.