Team Spirit manager Dmitry `Korb3n` Belov shared his views on the possibility of The International taking place in Kazakhstan. Responding to a fan`s question during a personal broadcast, he stated that he does not consider the country the most suitable location for a major Dota 2 tournament primarily targeting an Eastern European audience.
What percentage would I give for that [TI being held in Kazakhstan]? Well, maybe five… No, 1%! In short, very little. Very low percentage. From a marketing standpoint, it`s simply not very clear why it would be held in Kazakhstan. If you want to make an `Int` [TI] for Eastern Europe, it`s easier to do it in Serbia than in Kazakhstan. Dota is, of course, popular in Kazakhstan, but not as popular as in Russia or Ukraine. That`s why I give it a very low percentage.
Previously, commentator Daniil `1ceN1ce` Khalikov suggested that Valve might host The International in Kazakhstan or China in 2026. In his opinion, the company could look to expand the geographical locations for the tournament series, similar to the approach taken with PGL Astana 2025 for CS2.
Finley Holt