Riot Games has officially lifted the veil on the highly anticipated host cities for the VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT) 2026 season, promising a truly global spectacle for fans and competitors alike. With new territories set to experience the thrill of live top-tier Valorant esports, the upcoming year is shaping up to be a landmark for the tactical shooter’s competitive circuit.
The announcement confirms three pivotal locations for VCT`s premier events: Masters 1 will take place in Santiago, Chile; Masters 2 will be hosted in London, England; and the ultimate showdown, Champions, will return to Shanghai, China. This strategic spread underscores Riot`s commitment to expanding Valorant`s global footprint and nurturing its diverse fanbases.
South America`s Moment: Santiago Welcomes Masters 1
For the first time ever, a Valorant Masters event will grace the continent of South America, with Santiago, Chile, earning the prestigious honor of hosting Masters 1. This is a significant nod to the region`s burgeoning esports scene, which has consistently demonstrated an unwavering passion for Valorant.
While whispers of a dedicated VCT South America league have circulated, Riot Games` Global Head of Valorant Esports, Leo Faria, previously addressed these, stating:
“This is top of mind for us and changes are coming in 2027 to address it. But this report is false.”
The decision to bring Masters to Santiago, even without a regional league for now, serves as a powerful affirmation of the community`s importance and competitive growth. It’s an acknowledgment that some fanbases are so vibrant, they simply demand to be seen, heard, and experienced firsthand.
The United Kingdom`s Debut: London Hosts Masters 2
Following the Santiago kickoff, the VCT circuit will traverse the Atlantic to London, England, for Masters 2. This marks another historic first: the UK`s debut as a host for an international Valorant Champions Tour event. Given the substantial and active esports community in the United Kingdom, this decision is long overdue and undoubtedly welcome news for local fans.
London, a city steeped in history and known for its vibrant cultural tapestry, now adds a new chapter to its narrative as a premier esports destination. Expect a truly unique atmosphere, perhaps with a touch of polite British competitive intensity, as teams battle it out for international glory in the heart of England.
Shanghai`s Grand Return: Champions 2026
The 2026 season will culminate with the coveted Valorant Champions tournament returning to Shanghai, China. This choice comes as no surprise, given the overwhelming success of Masters Shanghai 2024. Riot Games itself lauded the previous event, remarking:
“After the incredible success of Masters Shanghai 2024 with a packed Mercedes-Benz Arena, record-breaking viewership, and a city bursting with energy, we knew we had to come back.”
China represents one of the largest and most enthusiastic esports markets globally, and Shanghai’s proven capability to host a spectacle of this magnitude makes it a natural fit for Valorant`s grandest stage. Champions in Shanghai promises to be an epic conclusion, fusing elite competition with an unparalleled audience experience.
Evolution of Masters: Bigger Fields, More Matches
Beyond the geographical expansion, the VCT 2026 season introduces a significant format change for Masters events. Instead of the previous eight-team format, both Masters 1 and Masters 2 will now feature 12 teams. This means three teams from each regional league will qualify, providing greater representation and offering more opportunities for emerging talents to shine on the international stage.
This expansion is a welcome development, promising more high-stakes matches and a broader display of regional meta-game differences. It effectively elevates Masters 1 in Santiago to the same competitive stature as Masters 2 in London, ensuring that both events deliver a comprehensive and exciting tournament experience.
A Global Vision for Valorant Esports
Riot Games` selection of these host cities for VCT 2026 is a clear statement of intent: to cultivate Valorant as a truly global esport, reaching new audiences and acknowledging the growth of existing fanbases. By bringing major events to South America and the UK for the first time, and returning to the proven success of Shanghai, Valorant continues to solidify its position at the forefront of competitive gaming. The stage is set for a monumental 2026 season, full of fresh narratives, new champions, and unforgettable moments for the worldwide Valorant community.