Riot Games has unveiled the highly anticipated Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) 2026 roadmap, just in time for the Champions Finals of 2025. This new season is set to reach a broader global audience while creating opportunities for aspiring players. Let’s dive deep into the VCT 2026 roadmap, detailing the exciting locations and the pathways to professional play.
Valorant Champions Tour 2026 Roadmap
The VCT 2026 roadmap, revealed in the wake of patch notes 11.07, brings forth an ambitious season filled with expanded formats, increased matches, and higher stakes at every stage. With the competitive season kicking off in early months, there’s a palpable excitement as pro teams prepare after this year’s intense VCT season concludes in October.
This year’s Valorant Champions Tour will host global events across three continents, offering fans numerous ways to engage with elite gameplay. Notably, with new Valorant agents rolling out in upcoming updates, expect shifts in game meta that could redefine strategies. Champions 2026 will take place in Shanghai, a city renowned for its vibrant esports environment.
VCT 2026 Global Events Locations
China’s vibrant crowd and dynamic esports culture make it the perfect location for the season’s premier event, Champions Shanghai. Following the overwhelming success of past events, including Masters Shanghai, Riot Games is reinforcing its commitment to the region. The three major global event stages for 2026 will include:
- Masters Santiago, Chile: The first-ever VCT global event in LATAM.
- Masters London, UK: Marking the UK’s international debut in the VCT.
- Champions Shanghai, China: The prestigious venue for crowning the next world champion.
Challengers and Premier Path to Champions
This year’s roadmap also outlines exciting opportunities for both Challenger and Premier players seeking a path to Champions. Challenger teams will be pursuing the brand-new “Path to Champions,” which will see four teams from each International League qualify for the Stage 2 Playoffs. These playoffs not only pave the way directly to Champions, but also include cash stipends to aid travel and rewards for consistent performance, keeping dreams alive for Challenger competitors.
For everyday players, the journey begins in Valorant Premier. Climbing the ranks, securing a win in the Invite Division, or clinching a spot through Qualifiers will lead competitors to Challengers. From there, it’s a rigorous pursuit: triumphing in their region, following the Path to Champs, and possibly standing under the dazzling lights of Shanghai. This offers the most accessible route from ranked play to Champions Valorant has ever presented.
This comprehensive overview of the Valorant Champions Tour 2026 roadmap highlights fresh formats and enhanced opportunities for players at all levels, ensuring that VCT is about more than just the top names—it’s a celebration for the entire community.
What are your thoughts on the VCT 2026 roadmap? Do you believe the season is starting too early? We’d love to hear your insights in the comments below.
What are the main changes in the VCT 2026 compared to previous years? The VCT 2026 roadmap reveals expanded formats, more global events, and increased pathways for aspiring pros compared to past seasons.
Which cities are hosting the major VCT 2026 events? The key locations for 2026 include Santiago (Chile), London (UK), and Shanghai (China), with Shanghai being the venue for the Champions event.
How can traditional players qualify for the VCT 2026? Players begin in Valorant Premier, progressing by winning their divisions or qualifying through tournaments to earn a spot in Challengers.
When does the VCT 2026 season kick off? The VCT 2026 season is expected to start within the first few months of the year, following the wrap-up of the current season.
Make sure to stay updated with the latest developments in esports and gameplay by exploring even more engaging content at Moyens I/O.