VCT EMEA returns to the Riot Games Arena in Berlin for 2026 Kickoff. The tournament runs January 20 through February 15 with a brand-new triple elimination format where teams need three losses before going home.
Triple Elimination Breakdown
Twelve teams compete for three spots at Masters Santiago. Champions 2025 teams Fnatic, Team Liquid, GIANTX, and Team Heretics get Round 2 byes in Upper Bracket. All series are best-of-three except the three finals which become best-of-five.
Week 1 features Upper Bracket Rounds 1 and 2. Week 2 brings Middle Bracket matches and Upper Bracket semis. Week 3 focuses on survival rounds across Lower Bracket. Week 4 delivers three Grand Finals Thursday through Sunday.
Even Upper and Middle Bracket final losers get second or third chances. Winners of each bracket qualify for Santiago.
New Teams Join the Fray
Ascension winners PCIFIC Esports and ULF Esports debut in VCT EMEA. They join BBL Esports, Fnatic, FUT Esports, Gentle Mates, GIANTX, Karmine Corp, Natus Vincere, Team Heretics, Team Liquid, and Team Vitality.
Top four finishers earn Championship Points toward Champions Shanghai. First place gets four points, second three, third two, and fourth one.
Ticket Info and Schedule
Tickets go on sale December 11 at 6 PM CET through official VCT EMEA page. Prices range €10-€20 depending on day. Venue address is Am Studio 20D, 12489 Berlin, Germany.
Tickets available Thursdays and Fridays Weeks 1-3, then daily Week 4. Matches stream on VALORANT EMEA YouTube and Twitch channels.
Teams missing qualification get another EMEA tournament chance before Masters Santiago. Riot reveals details soon.
Championship Points become crucial for automatic Champions Shanghai spots. Kickoff sets the tone for intense EMEA season.
