VCT 2027 is set to shake up the VALORANT esports scene. The new VCT introduces a single-tier ecosystem with open qualifiers to global events, a new partnership model for partner teams, and more support for non-partner teams.
Here’s everything you need to know about VCT and VALORANT esports ahead of 2027.
What’s changing in VCT 2027?
- In 2027, VCT shifts to a single-tier ecosystem with open qualifiers for aspiring teams to enter regional tournaments and reach global events.
- Traditional leagues are replaced with VCT Cups, which are shorter tournaments.
- Expanded financial support for non-partner teams, enabling them to outperform lower-ranked partner teams.
- In 2027, partner teams enter a new two-year partnership cycle.
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How the new VCT 2027 format works
In 2027, VCT shifts towards a tournament model where every match carries meaningful stakes and creates more opportunities for aspiring teams. With the introduction of open qualifiers for regional events, any aspiring team can enter VCT and qualify for Masters and Champions.
From open qualifiers, teams enter VCT Cups (and Kickoff), which replace traditional league play. VCT Cups determine the top teams in a region and qualify them for Masters and Champions, similarly to 2026 regional leagues, but in a shorter format.
Region and territory distribution in VCT 2027 is as follows:
- Americas: North America, LATAM, Brazil
- Pacific: SEA, Japan, Korea, South Asia
- EMEA: EU, MENA, Turkey
- CN: China
The exact qualification paths for each region are to be confirmed, but could include community tournaments, partner events, collegiate events, Premier, and more.
VCT 2027 season structure and locations
The VCT 2027 structure is similar to 2026, but with added online open qualifiers before every stage. The season starts with Kickoff leading into Masters 1. In this format, VCT Cups replace Stage 1 and Stage 2 leagues, leading into Masters 2 and then Champions.
Open qualifiers for each stage of the season happen concurrently with VCT Cups and Masters, creating multiple opportunities for teams to qualify and compete for a spot at global events.
Here’s a breakdown of the VCT 2027 season structure:
- Kickoff Open Qualifiers
- Kickoff
- Masters 1
- Cup 1 Open Qualifiers
- Cup 1
- Masters 2
- Cup 2 Open Qualifiers
- Cup 2
- Champions
The locations and exact dates for the events are unknown, but the finals of each VCT Cup will be held live in new cities. Riot Games also promises that VCT will visit over 16 cities throughout the season, including VCT Cups, international competitions, and global events.
VCT 2027 partner and non-partner teams’ rewards
With VCT becoming more open than ever before, Riot Games expands its support for non-partner teams. The model allows teams to compete across multiple events and outperform lower-ranked partner teams, while gaining more consistent funding.
Non-partner teams can expect:
- Qualification cash incentives at each stage of the competition
- Access to prize pools (totalling over $6 million per year) across regional and global events
- Financial support for travel and participation in global events
- More consistent payout cycles to support team operations throughout the season
At the same time, partner teams continue to be a core part of VCT, benefiting from financial stability and long-term support. However, in 2027, the partner teams enter a new two-year partnership cycle with updated selection criteria.
Partner teams continue to benefit from:
- Direct seeding
- Baseline payments
- Performance bonuses
- Digital goods revenue share
Applications for partner teams are evaluated based on sustainability, operational strength, infrastructure, and competitive success. Teams must also demonstrate a commitment to growing the VALORANT community and maintain a presence that strongly resonates with it.
