StarLadder and Runestone Announce Partnership for the StarLadder CS2 Budapest Major

StarLadder and Runestone are proud to announce a new partnership for the StarLadder Counter-Strike 2 Major in Budapest. As part of this collaboration, Runestone will serve as the official data and integrity partner for the event, supporting StarLadder with advanced data operations, competitive integrity services, and industry-leading esports technology. 
 

“Runestone gives us the data, analytical depth and operational backbone to run a tournament of this scale with confidence, supported by real-time insights and reliable processes. Their expertise allows us to focus on delivering an exceptional experience for players, teams, and fans alike”, said Roman Romantsov, CEO at StarLadder.

The partnership marks an important milestone as StarLadder returns to center stage with one of the most anticipated CS2 Majors in recent years. Runestone’s expertise in real-time data processing, secure competitive infrastructure, and integrity oversight will play a key role in ensuring that the tournament operates with full transparency, reliability, and competitive fairness.
 
“As a storied tournament organizer, StarLadder has played a defining role in shaping esports. Being able to support their return with our integrity and data infrastructure is something we’re genuinely excited about.” said Shane Clarke, Managing Director at Runestone. “Our mission at Runestone is to bring trust, accuracy, and integrity to esports operations, and this partnership allows us to strengthen the competitive environment at one of the most important events on the Counter-Strike calendar.”

StarLadder and Runestone look forward to working closely throughout the CS2 Budapest Major and to laying the foundation for future innovation within the global Counter-Strike ecosystem. The StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 takes place from November 24 to December 14, featuring 32 of the world’s top Counter-Strike 2 teams competing for $1,250,000, the title, and global recognition. A special Runestone-powered feature will be revealed soon; follow our website and socials for updates.

About Runestone.gg

Runestone is a data and engagement infrastructure that transforms live esports into interactive, data-driven experiences. Using real-time in-game information sourced directly from tournament organizers and publishers, Runestone delivers fast, accurate overlays and analytics that elevate broadcasts, deepen fan engagement, and unlock meaningful operational insights. Committed to transparency and competitive integrity, Runestone also monitors matches for suspicious activity to protect fair play and strengthen trust across the esports ecosystem.

About StarLadder

Founded in 2001, StarLadder is one of the global leaders in esports. The company is renowned for organizing top-tier international tournaments, including the CS2 Major and its flagship StarSeries. StarLadder is widely recognized for its innovation and excellence in event management, studio and broadcast production, and global live streaming. The company has played a key role in the evolution of competitive Counter-Strike, having hosted the CS:GO Major in Berlin in 2019 and delivering the CS2 Major in Budapest in 2025. Additionally, StarLadder has been an integral part of the Dota 2 competitive ecosystem, organizing prestigious international events such as The Chongqing Major. With a strong commitment to quality and the global esports community, StarLadder continues to shape the future of competitive gaming.