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By the People, for the People
Riot Reveals Massive Overhaul of VALORANT Champions Tour for 2027
Open qualifiers for every major event, new tournament-based structure, and more global reach planned for VCT 2027.
Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:06pm
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Riot Games has announced a major shakeup to the VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT) format for the 2027 season. The new structure will move away from a regular-season league model and instead feature a tournament-based system with open qualifiers for every major event. This is meant to create more high-stakes moments throughout the season and make the path to top-tier competition more accessible. Other key changes include the introduction of VCT Cups, a focus on more live events in cities around the world, and a revamped partnership program.
Why it matters
These sweeping changes to the VCT format are aimed at making the VALORANT esports ecosystem more open, exciting, and globally connected. By replacing the closed league system with open qualifiers and a tournament-based structure, Riot is hoping to provide more opportunities for up-and-coming teams to break through and challenge the established organizations. The increased number of live events across more regions should also help grow local fan bases and make the VCT feel more accessible to viewers around the world.
The details
The new VCT format will be built around a series of 'Cups' - LAN-based tournaments that will directly qualify teams into the Masters and Champions events. Every path to those major tournaments will now begin with open qualifiers, allowing any team globally to compete for a spot. Riot also plans to host over 20 tournaments per year, visiting more than 16 cities around the world in a roadshow-style format. The overall prize pool for the VCT circuit will exceed $6 million annually, with more funds made available to help smaller teams handle logistics like visas and travel. While the partnership program remains, Riot is revamping the criteria to focus more on community growth, fan resonance, and competitive performance.
- The new VCT format will debut in 2027.
- Open qualifiers for the first Kickoff event of 2027 will take place in Q4 of 2026.
The players
Riot Games
The developer and publisher of the VALORANT esports ecosystem.
What they’re saying
“The new structure suggests Riot wants the global system to feel more connected to local ecosystems again. Instead of everything revolving around a closed top layer, the visuals imply a ladder where regional competition matters because it connects directly to the biggest stages.”
— Leo Faria, Esports Journalist
What’s next
Riot has stated that more details on the specific qualification mechanics, regional calendars, and event locations for the 2027 VCT will be shared later this year.
The takeaway
Riot's overhaul of the VALORANT Champions Tour for 2027 represents a major shift towards a more open, globally-connected, and high-stakes esports ecosystem. By replacing the closed league system with a tournament-based format featuring open qualifiers, the publisher is aiming to create more opportunities for up-and-coming teams while also building stronger local fan bases through increased live events around the world.
