The phone vibrated, another PokeStop flashing red. A wave of frustration washed over me; it was the fifth Team GO Rocket grunt in as many blocks. Suddenly, though, I realized this wasn’t just another surge—something bigger was happening, and it was time to prepare.
Pokemon GO Team GO Rocket Takeover events offer a rare chance to snag some powerful Shadow Pokemon, often with the perfect movesets. If you’re like me, you’re always hunting for an edge. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming Team GO Rocket Takeover event in Pokemon GO.
Pokemon GO Team GO Rocket Takeover Event: Dates and Times
I remember one event where I almost missed out because I misread the timing. Don’t let that happen to you. The Team GO Rocket Takeover event in Pokemon GO starts on Friday, January 23, 2026, and lasts for three days. Here are the precise times:
- Start Date and Time: Friday, January 23, 2026, at 12 AM local time
- End Date and Time: Sunday, January 25, 2026, at 8 PM local time
Once the event is over, the bonuses vanish. There’s no second chance.
What happens after the Team GO Rocket event ends in Pokemon GO?
Once the clock strikes 8 PM on January 25th, the increased grunt appearances, TM benefits, and boosted Shadow Raid stats disappear. You’ll miss your chance to TM away Frustration or battle buffed Shadow Pokemon.
Bonuses During the Team GO Rocket Takeover
Think of these bonuses as a surge of adrenaline, boosting your gameplay. This event comes with bonuses specifically designed to enhance Shadow Pokemon encounters:
- Team GO Rocket Grunts will show up more often at PokeStops and in balloons.
- You can use a Charged TM to help a Shadow Pokémon forget the Charged Attack Frustration.
- Pokemon caught from one-star and three-star Shadow Raids during the event will have higher stats across the board.
Stock up on Charged TMs, battle those grunts relentlessly, and hit those Shadow Raids hard. During the event, their stats will be amplified like never before.
Featured Shadow Pokemon
Note:
Shadow Pokemon marked with a * can be shiny
Giovanni’s bringing a new Shadow Legendary to the table. Plus, the Team GO Rocket Leaders are shaking up their lineups. This is your hitlist:
| Pokemon | Type | GO Rocket NPC |
|---|---|---|
 Thundurus (Incarnate) |
Electric / Flying | Giovanni (Go Rocket Boss) |
 Fennekin* |
Fire | Cliff (Go Rocket Leader) |
 Froakie* |
Water | Arlo (Go Rocket Leader) |
 Chespin* |
Grass | Sierra (Go Rocket Leader) |
How do I find Giovanni during the Team GO Rocket Takeover event in Pokemon GO?
A new Special Research story line will become available. Complete it to earn a Super Rocket Radar, and use it to track down Giovanni. Remember, you have until March 3, 2026, at 9:59 AM local time to claim the Special Research.
Field and Special Research: Tasks and Rewards
These events aren’t just about battling; they’re about strategy. New field research tasks will be available, rewarding you with Fast TMs, Charged TMs, and Mysterious Components. This is where you replenish your supplies for the battles ahead.
Exact tasks and reward amounts are still under wraps. Keep an eye out; this section will be updated as soon as the event goes live.
Collection Challenge
Consider this a side quest. A collection challenge will run alongside the main event, tasking you with catching Shadow Chespin, Shadow Froakie, and Shadow Fennekin. Completion earns you Stardust, XP, and a Rocket Radar.
That’s your briefing for the upcoming Team GO Rocket Takeover event in January 2026. Given the Kalos starters featured, does this event change your long-term battle strategy?