Valorant Champions Tour 2026 Unveils Global Expansion and New Pro Path

Riot Games has officially revealed the Valorant Champions Tour 2026 roadmap. The announcement was made ahead of the Champions Finals 2025, setting the stage for the next season. The 2026 season will expand the game’s global footprint significantly.

It introduces a new competitive path for aspiring professionals. This move aims to make the esport more accessible and engaging for a worldwide audience.

Three Continents to Host Major 2026 Events

The VCT 2026 calendar features global events across three continents. Masters tournaments are scheduled for Santiago, Chile, and London, United Kingdom. The season will culminate with the Champions world championship in Shanghai, China.

According to Reuters, this represents a strategic push into growing esports markets. The choice of Shanghai follows the successful Masters event held there previously. It acknowledges China’s passionate and rapidly expanding fan base.

A Clearer Path from Ranked Play to Pro Scene

A major change for 2026 is the redesigned “Path to Champions.” Challengers league teams will now have a direct route to the Champions tournament. Four top teams from each International League will qualify for Stage 2 Playoffs.

These playoffs serve as a gateway to the world championship. The system is designed to reward consistent performance throughout the season. It also provides financial travel support to qualifying teams.

For amateur players, the journey begins with Valorant Premier. Winning an Invite Division or a Qualifier event grants entry into the Challengers circuit. This creates a clear, structured progression from casual ranked play to the professional stage.

The Valorant Champions Tour 2026 roadmap signals Riot’s commitment to globalizing its premier esport. This expansion and new pro path could fundamentally reshape the competitive landscape for years to come.

Info at your fingertips

Where will VCT 2026 events be held?

Masters events are scheduled for Santiago, Chile and London, UK. The Champions world championship will take place in Shanghai, China next year.

What is the new “Path to Champions”?

It is a new system giving Challengers teams a direct route to the Champions tournament. Top teams from each region’s International League will qualify for Stage 2 Playoffs for a chance at the world championship.

How can amateur players join the VCT?

Players start by competing in Valorant Premier. Winning an Invite Division or a Qualifier provides a pathway into the Challengers league, which feeds into the top-tier international leagues.

Why is Shanghai hosting Champions 2026?

Riot Games is building on the success of previous events in China. The region has demonstrated a massive and highly engaged esports audience, making it a key market for growth.

When does the VCT 2026 season start?

The new competitive season is scheduled to begin in the first few months of 2026. Specific dates for the kickoff events have not yet been announced publicly.