On October 3rd, VCT announced the 2026 event schedule and changes to the promotion matches.
First, the 2026 VCT plan features three major international tournaments taking place in Santiago, London, and Shanghai.
In 2026, VCTCN will switch to a touring league format, hosting competitions in five distinct cities.
The 2026 promotion matches are cancelled, with changes to the promotion system.
In 2026, the promotion tournaments will be eliminated; Challenger League teams will no longer compete in promotion matches but will gain a direct path to the “Global Championship.”
For the first time ever, each international league will havefour Challenger teamsadvancing to the second stage playoffs.
Changes to the international league format introduce the first Masters tournament participants.
The starting qualifier will use a brand-newtriple-elimination format. Teams are eliminated after three losses, and the top three finishers will qualify for the Santiago Masters.
The Santiago Masters will feature12 teamscompeting, with the format remaining consistent with the current second Masters event.
The regular season will also move away from last year’s group stage format; all teams will playan equal number of matchesto compete for spots in the stage playoffs.