Analysis
01 June 2026
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8 min read
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Who Will Win IEM Cologne Major 2026: CS2 Favorites Analysis
IEM Cologne Major 2026 starts June 2. We break down why Vitality is at 45%, why Spirit is the main challenger, and who could upset the predictions.
Author:
MBG Editorial
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IEM Cologne Major 2026 is the first major Major of the season and arguably the most competitive in years. 32 teams from around the world, three Swiss stages, and a historic format where all Stage 3 matches are Bo3. Let's break down who the favorites are and why.
Team Spirit post-Astana discovered a new aggressive game model that proved difficult for opponents to read
Team Vitality enters Cologne as the clear favorite (45% on Polymarket). They've dominated all of 2026. Team Spirit (17%) is the main challenger: PGL Astana 2026 winners who found a new aggressive game model. Natus Vincere (11%) and Team Falcons (10%) are dark horses with real deep-run potential. For the first time in Major history, all Stage 3 matches are Bo3 — this changes the dynamic in favor of systematic teams.
Article author
MBG Editorial
