DUBLIN, 7 NOVEMBER 2025 — Ireland Esports Leagues (IEL) and Ireland Challengers League for Counter-Strike 2 (ICL) are proud to announce a formal partnership, bringing Ireland’s national esports leagues structure together with one of its most vibrant and competitive grassroots communities.
This collaboration marks the third national community partnership from IEL, following recent announcements with Rocket League Ireland and COD Ireland. Together, IEL and ICL aim to support the development of the Irish CS2 players, tournament organisers and broadcast talent through shared infrastructure, communications and competition opportunities.
“Counter-Strike has long been a cornerstone of global esports, the Irish community deserves the same level of structure, recognition and opportunity. Partnering with ICL means we can support each other to make that happen—without compromising the unique culture that makes the Irish CS2 scene what it is.”
— Kurt Pittman, Founder & CEO, Nativz Gaming (trading as Ireland Esports Leagues)
The partnership will see ICL officially recognised on the IEL website, newsletters, social platforms and much more, with both parties working together to cross-promote events, surface community stories, and elevate local organisers.
"This partnership enables ICL to grow and thrive in ways we were never able to in the past. ICL has always struggled with visibility despite Counter-Strike's clear presence in the esports zeitgeist of Ireland. Our partnership with IEL builds a pipeline for their competitors to play more tournaments, meet new players, and most importantly, have more fun with their favourite game, all while building the future of the Irish Counter-Strike community together and ensuring a mutual, continued success."
— Adam Conway (Incipiens), Head Admin, ICL
The Counter-Strike player base in Ireland has deep roots, recent growth through university and company teams has re-energised the scene. Many ICL community members have played in the Ireland Esports Collegiate Series, with some going on to compete at higher levels and even join production and casting crews for major broadcasts. IEL’s Office Showdown—its Company Series—now also features CS2 as a key title, offering adult players and alumni another outlet for competitive play.
“As a Collegiate Series player, ICL gave me a way to stay sharp, meet new teammates, and keep competing once I graduated. Now, through IEL and ICL working together, that pathway is clearer than ever.”
— Jack Murnin (Br0ken), CS2 Player and Collegiate Series alumni
The partnership is non-exclusive and community-first—designed to support local organisers, not replace them. It reflects IEL’s long-term belief that national success starts with local collaboration which builds toward a unified ecosystem where players, casters, creators and teams can find their next step.
For more information on Ireland Esports Leagues, visit www.irelandesportsleagues.com.
To follow ICL and their upcoming tournaments, visit their linktree.
