ESL announces rulebook changes ahead of post player break tournaments

Changes have been made to ESL's Pro Tour rulebook prior to the start of 2025's second season.

The changes made include adjustments to line up with Valve's new rules regarding regions and a new system for ESL Challenger League.

Also read: ESL teases return to Katowice and the Spodek in 2026

Regional Classification

Teams with no majority of players represented from one region will be assigned to the region with the greatest Major representation in the tie within the team. If a team has two European players, two Americas players, and an Australian, that team will play in the EU region.
If the roster cannot be tied to a single region, they play through Europe.
If a player's nationality is not represented in one of the three main regions in a mixed roster, they will be assigned to the region with the least representation in the Major. If a team has two European players, two Americas players, and a South African, the South African will become an Americas player and the team will compete in the Americas.

Seeding within an event

The specific VRS used in the Additional Information of the event will be used to determine seeding
In events where teams seed each other, in case of a tie, the latest VRS will be used to break the tie.

ESL Challenger League

Each ESL Challenger League Season consists of four standalone cups. The winners of these cups qualify for the Regional Final, where they will compete for one slot in the ESL Pro League.
A team may compete in more than one ECL Cup after winning one.
If a team wins two cups, they will advanced directly to the grand final of the Regional Final
If a team three cups, the semifinals will be canceled.
If a team wins all four cups, the Regional Final will be canceled and that team will qualify directly to ESL Pro League.

Integrity camera obligations

For online competitions, players may be required to provide a live camera feed showing their setup - including, but not limited to, their monitor, keyboard, mouse, and surrounding area. Specific requirements will be communicated on a case-by-case basis. Compliance with these instructions is mandatory; failure to do so will result in penalties, up to and including disqualification from the competition.

Find the update in its entirety here.