Everything You Need to Know About the VCT Pacific 2026 Kickoff
The wait is almost over as VALORANT Champions Tour 2026 - Pacific Kickoff is set to begin on 22nd January, marking the start of another thrilling VALORANT season. Following a dramatic 2025 season filled with upsets, rivalries, and standout performances, fans can look forward to a new year packed with action, as Pacific teams battle for regional glory and global qualification.
What’s New in 2026?
The 2026 season introduces major changes to the Pacific lineup and tournament structure. FULL SENSE officially joins VCT Pacific, replacing TALON Esports, while two new teams have earned their place through Ascension Pacific 2025 – the returning Nongshim RedForce and newcomers VARREL (qualified as SLT Seongnam).
Kickoff Format
The VCT Pacific 2026 Kickoff event will run from 22 January to 15 February, featuring a brand-new triple elimination bracket format. For the first time in VCT Pacific history, teams will have three strikes before elimination, ensuring more matches and opportunities for redemption.
The top four teams from Champions 2025 – T1, DRX, Paper Rex and Rex Regum Qeon – receive first-round byes in the upper bracket, while the remaining teams will be placed via random draw. By the end of Kickoff, the top three teams will secure seats at Masters Santiago, the first global VCT event of 2026.
Schedule and Opening Matches
Kickoff will run for just over 3 weeks, meaning qualified teams will get a healthy 2 weeks’ time before Masters Santiago begins. All Kickoff matches will begin at 9 am CET / 4 pm CST / 5 pm KST.
For the opening matches, fans are in for quite some interesting matchups:
- Nongshim RedForce vs Team Secret (winner will face T1)
- ZETA DIVISION vs FULL SENSE (winner will face DRX)
- VARREL vs Global Esports (winner will face Paper Rex)
- DetonatioN FocusMe vs Gen.G Esports (winner will face Rex Regum Qeon)
Championship Points also return in 2026. The top two teams on the yearly leaderboard will automatically qualify for Champions, joined by the top two finishers from the Stage 2 Playoffs. Championship Points will be distributed as follows:
- 1st = 4 points
- 2nd = 3 points
- 3rd = 2 points
- 4th = 1 point
Where to Watch
The VCT Pacific Kickoff will be broadcast in multiple languages across platforms, ensuring fans worldwide can tune in live.
With new teams, new formats, and a stacked calendar, VCT Pacific 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting seasons yet. Whether you’re cheering for the giants or the rising stars of the Pacific, the countdown to kickoff is officially on.
For all things VCT-related, make sure to stay tuned to THESPIKE.GG as we continue to update you with the freshest game and esports news.
Featured Image Source: Riot Games
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