amicitaacademy.com – The International (TI), Dota 2’s premier annual tournament, stands as a titan in the esports world. Organized by Valve, the game’s developer, TI brings together the globe’s top teams to battle for the Aegis of Champions and a colossal prize pool. Since its debut in 2011 at Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, with a then-unheard-of $1.6 million prize, TI has grown into a cultural phenomenon, blending fierce competition with a passionate community.
Each year, TI evolves. The 2025 edition, set for September 4-14 in Hamburg, Germany, marks a return to its roots, hosted at the Barclays Arena. Sixteen teams will compete, selected via direct invites, regional qualifiers, and open qualifiers. The format typically features a group stage followed by a double-elimination playoff, culminating in a grand final that crowns the world’s best. Prize pools, crowdfunded through in-game Compendium sales, have soared—peaking at $40 million in 2021—though recent years saw a dip, with 2024 at $2.8 million.
TI’s legacy is rich. From Natus Vincere’s 2011 triumph to Team Liquid’s 2024 victory in Copenhagen, it has minted legends and unforgettable moments. Beyond gameplay, TI captivates with its production—live crowds, expert casters, and global streams in multiple languages. It’s more than a tournament; it’s a celebration of Dota 2’s strategic depth and community spirit, drawing millions of viewers and cementing its status as esports’ ultimate stage.
