News · Esports
PGL to fine main-stage dropouts $30,000
PGL will add financial penalties for Counter-Strike 2 teams that pull out of events in its 2027 regulations, Cybersport.ru reported. A main-stage withdrawal brings a $30,000 fine.
Key facts
- When2027 regulations
- Change$30,000 fine for leaving the main stage
- WhoPGL, CEO Silviu Stroe
Tournament operator PGL will add financial penalties for withdrawing from Counter-Strike 2 events to its 2027 regulations, Cybersport.ru reported on Nov. 6. The outlet said the rules target teams that register for tournaments and then pull out depending on their position in the Valve Regional Standings (VRS) ranking.
According to the report, a team that withdraws after its entry is confirmed loses the right to a direct invite to PGL’s next event. If a team leaves the main stage, its organization must also repay PGL’s travel and accommodation costs for the team, cover the cost of inviting a replacement and pay a $30,000 fine.
Exceptions
The financial penalties will not apply in the case of a documented medical emergency or a visa refusal for reasons outside the team’s control, according to the outlet. Cybersport.ru said the visa exception does not cover players who filed their documents too late or submitted an incomplete package.
PGL CEO Silviu Stroe told HLTV.org, as relayed by Cybersport.ru, that the changes are meant to make the scene more professional.
Why it matters
Under PGL's 2027 regulations, a team that withdraws after its entry is confirmed loses its direct invite to the next event, and a main-stage exit also costs money, according to Cybersport.ru.