The VALORANT Champions Tour in Asia-Pacific is stepping into a new era. Riot Games has officially revealed major updates to the VCT Challengers APAC 2026 (VCT APAC) program, reshaping the path teams take toward the international stage and, ultimately, Champions.
The changes aim to boost grassroots development across Southeast Asia while sharpening competition across the entire APAC region. Say goodbye to the old Ascension route. Starting 2026, Challengers teams will now battle for direct slots in the International League Stage 2 Playoffs, leveling up their chances to reach the biggest stage in VALORANT esports.
With a massive player base and fiercely competitive scenes, APAC is gearing up for an even more intense journey to the top.
A New Path to the VCT Champions Stage
For 2026, the VCT ecosystem introduces a fresh qualification route. Instead of the Ascension format, Challengers teams will now compete for four exclusive APAC slots in Stage 2 of the International League Playoffs, directly affecting their journey to Champions.
Slot Distribution for APAC
- 1 slot for Southeast Asia
- 1 slot for Japan
- 1 slot for Korea
- 1 slot from the APAC Last Chance Qualifier
- Contenders include:
- Best team from South Asia
- Best team from Oceania
- 2nd and 3rd seeds from Southeast Asia
- Contenders include:
This structure balances the competitive strength of established regions while still giving rising areas the chance to swing for international glory. And with Southeast Asia’s massive and diverse talent pool, the region earns an extra chance to fight for spots.
Competitive Rewards and Academy System Updates
Challengers teams who reach Stage 2 Playoffs won’t just earn prestige. Each qualifying team will also receive a USD 75,000 stipend, giving squads financial support as they chase the crown.
Academy teams can still compete in Challengers, though they cannot qualify for Stage 2 Playoffs. Riot is also removing relegation protection for academy squads in 2026. If they finish last in their region, they’ll need to defend their slot like everyone else.
A fairer battlefield is coming, and the rookies are hungry.
New Structure for VCT Challengers Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia sees the biggest shake-up. Riot is switching to a local-to-regional tournament model, emphasizing player development at the grassroots level and expanding opportunities for emerging talent.
Key Mechanics of the New Format
- Two splits per year
- Local open qualifiers feed into regional competition
- Top two teams from each local qualifier advance
- 12-team Challengers Southeast Asia tournament per split
- Academy teams begin at local qualifier level
- 2 Premier teams per Episode also earn Split qualification
SEA Local Qualification Regions for 2026
- Thailand
- Indonesia
- Vietnam
- Philippines
- One combined bracket for the remaining SEA regions
This system builds a true ladder from local gyms to global arenas. If you grind, you earn your shot.
Better Viewing Experience for Fans
After community feedback, Riot is lifting streaming exclusivity in 2026. That means local-language broadcasts and more community access, giving fans better ways to watch, hype, and support their regional stars.
APAC is known for its passionate fandom, and next year promises louder cheers, bolder rivalries, and wilder highlight reels.
The Road Ahead for APAC VALORANT
The updates to VCT Challengers APAC 2026 are all about growth. By nurturing local circuits, opening pathways to the top, and giving fans a richer viewing experience, Riot is building a future where any team in APAC can rise, roar, and reach Champions.
A new season is coming. Fresh talent is loading in. And the hunt for the crown is about to get even fiercer.
See you in the VCT Pacific Stage 2 Playoffs.
