Riot Games sets VCT 2027 Open Qualifiers for November 2026
Riot Games has announced that VCT 2027 Open Qualifiers will begin in November 2026, creating a new open path for amateur and non-partner teams to reach
Riot Games has confirmed the VCT 2027 Open Qualifiers will start in November 2026. This change provides amateur and non-partner teams a direct route to the top tiers of competitive VALORANT.
This is one of the most significant structural shifts since the partner team system began. Starting in 2027, open teams can qualify for VCT Kickoff and have a pathway to compete in Cups, Masters, and the Champions tournament. Teams that reach major stages will receive fixed qualification payments and remain eligible for standard event prize money.
The new system divides competition into three primary regions: Americas, EMEA, and Pacific. Each region will send 12 teams to the VCT Kickoff event.
| Region | Partner Team Slots | Open Qualifier Slots |
|---|---|---|
| Americas | 8 | 4 |
| EMEA | 8 | 4 |
| Pacific | 8 | 4 |
Regions may host several Open Qualifiers throughout the season. A team that fails in one attempt will not be eliminated for the entire year. Depending on regional pathway designs, squads could have multiple chances to qualify for Kickoff. Riot Games plans to release further details in upcoming announcements.
Team preparation and roster rules
Teams do not need to register immediately. With qualifiers beginning in November, aspiring rosters should start their preparations now. They must build a stable five-player lineup and ensure every player has a valid passport. Early planning for visas and travel is essential.
Most regions require at least three of the five players on a roster to be from that region. Roster continuity is also important. Open and creator-led teams that retain at least three of their five players will keep their competitive progress throughout the season.
Regional qualifier breakdown
The Americas region will host qualifiers for North America, Latin America North, Latin America South, and Brazil. EMEA will run Open Qualifiers for Europe, Türkiye, and the MENA region.
The Pacific region lists qualifiers for South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Oceania. The Southeast Asia qualifier will cover the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and the rest of that region. China will also host its own separate Open Qualifiers. Riot will publish a full-year calendar and more detailed information soon.
These changes mark a major opening of the competitive pathway. The system now formally integrates open competition with the partnered league structure from the season's start.
