The largest prize pool ever in competitive gaming is up for grabs this week in Vancouver, Canada.

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US$24.8m will be shared out between those successful at The International 2018, the world championship of Dota 2, breaking last year’s record of $20.77m.

Developer of the game and host of the tournament, Valve Corporation raised the funds for the prize money via an in-game battle-pass that players could purchase. Twenty five per cent of the proceeds were added to the pool.

The winners of the event stand to be awarded a staggering $10.86m, with $3.9m going to the runners-up.

The tournament, which is currently underway, runs through until the finals, which will be held on August 25.

Image: The International 2018 at the Rogers Arena, Vancouver, Canada