Copenhagen, Denmark, is set to be the battleground for The International 2024, scheduled for September.

In an unexpected move, Valve, in a surprise blog post on the Dota 2 website, revealed the location and timing for The International 2024. Breaking away from the numbered format, this edition marks a significant shift for the event, which has historically been a pinnacle in the Dota 2 competitive scene.

For European fans, particularly those who have long awaited the opportunity to attend The International since its inception in 2011, this announcement brings a wave of excitement. The last European stint for the tournament was in 2011, coinciding with the Gamescom trade show in Cologne, Germany. Plans to hold The International in Stockholm in 2020 and 2021 were derailed by the global pandemic, leading to the relocation of the 2021 event to Romania, albeit without a live audience due to health concerns.

While specific dates for the tournament remain undisclosed, Valve hinted at a September kick-off, suggesting a departure from the traditional August schedule. The Royal Arena in Copenhagen is slated to host the main event, adding another chapter to its esports legacy, having previously hosted renowned competitions like the BLAST Fall Finals and the upcoming CS2 Major.

In addition to the venue and timing, Valve announced a return to the 16-team format, with a blend of direct invites and open qualifiers determining the line-up. This decision signals a departure from the Dota Pro Circuit’s structure, reverting to the classic format of team selection.