BLAST Partners with Polymarket for 2026 Prediction Markets

BLAST has named Polymarket as its official prediction partner for the 2026 season, spanning its Counter-Strike 2 and Dota 2 tournament series. The collaboration integrates cryptocurrency-based prediction markets into BLAST Premier and BLAST Slam events, starting with BLAST Slam VI in Malta from February 13-15. This move enhances fan participation through real-time predictions, positioning Polymarket as a key engagement tool in the esports ecosystem.

Key Takeaways

• Operators and platforms gain exposure to innovative, blockchain-driven prediction models that complement traditional betting.
• Fans benefit from increased interactivity through live odds and exclusive rewards, which can boost viewership and liquidity in non-US markets.
• The partnership signals growing convergence between esports tournaments and decentralized finance tools, offering new revenue streams for organizers.

BLAST, a leading organizer of premium CS:GO and Dota 2 tournaments, has expanded its partnerships to include Polymarket, a decentralized prediction market platform. The agreement covers the full 2026 calendar, including high-profile events such as BLAST Premier (CS: GO) and BLAST Slam (Dota 2). It kicks off immediately with BLAST Slam VI's studio phase in Malta (February 13-15), followed by events such as the BLAST Open in the Netherlands (March 18-29).

Polymarket allows users to trade on event outcomes using cryptocurrency, functioning similarly to betting markets but framed as prediction markets. The deal includes integration of live odds during broadcasts, exclusive fan drops, and enhanced participation features. BLAST officials described it as "the beginning of a new chapter for fan participation in esports," emphasizing deeper engagement beyond traditional viewership.

For the esports betting industry, this development highlights the appeal of Web3 technologies in monetizable regions (Europe, Asia, etc.). Traditional operators may face competition from decentralized platforms that offer lower fees and global accessibility, while organizers like BLAST diversify revenue through sponsorships and data sharing. It also raises questions about regulatory alignment, as prediction markets operate in a gray area in some jurisdictions, though the focus remains on non-US markets.

The partnership builds on BLAST's recent renewals (e.g., with ASUS for hardware) and reflects broader trends toward innovative fan tools in esports. With CS2 and Dota 2 maintaining strong global audiences, this could drive higher engagement volumes and influence how betting markets evolve for major tournaments.

Sources: Esports Insider, VPEsports