The new VCT 2027 format is gradually taking shape. Riot Games had already announced some time ago that the VCT would become more accessible to Tier 2 teams next year. With the next Kickoffs set to begin in January, the first Open Qualifiers of the season were announced on Tuesday.
With the participation of the best VCL teams in Stage 2 of the VCT across the different Tier 1 leagues this year, Riot Games had already introduced tournaments that were more accessible to non-partnered teams. Next season will take this approach a step further with the introduction of Open Qualifiers throughout the year.
The first of these, which will provide qualification for the 2027 VCT Kickoffs, will take place in November, just a few weeks after
VALORANT Champions and the conclusion of the 2026 season.
Four teams to qualify
The Kickoffs, which will officially mark the beginning of the VCT season in January, will feature 12 teams in each major league. The eight partnered teams, which will be announced by then, will compete alongside the four teams emerging from the regional qualifiers. These teams will therefore have the opportunity to subsequently qualify for international events. Riot Games also emphasized that teams earning their place in the VCT will receive financial support, potentially up to $1.1M, to help them compete at the highest level. Qualifying for the Kickoff will also grant a $100,000 prize for the Open teams.
Several qualifiers will be held throughout the season, giving non-partnered teams multiple opportunities to join the top-level competition. Riot Games is already calling on prospective teams wishing to participate in the Qualifiers to prepare accordingly and begin building rosters that meet the eligibility requirements for these tournaments.
A total of 16 regional Qualifiers will be held across the four main regions, as outlined below. Specific information regarding their format and dates will be announced at a later time.
Open Qualifiers by Region:
VCT EMEA: Europe, Türkiye, MENA
VCT Pacific: South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Oceania
VCT Americas: North America, Latin America North, Latin America South, Brazil
VCT China: China
