Riot Games details new steps to fix VCT EMEA Tech Issues

The VALORANT Champions Tour 2025 - EMEA Stage 1 has been marred by ongoing technical problems, culminating in the postponement of matches during Week 5. Riot Games has officially addressed the situation and laid out concrete steps they are taking to fix the issues and restore confidence among players and fans.

Week 5 Matches Postponed Amid Growing Frustration

After struggling to complete the first map of a scheduled series, VCT EMEA officials were forced to postpone the remainder of the matches in Week 5 due to severe technical issues affecting players’ PCs on stage. The league has promised to reschedule the matches in the coming days, but the damage to its credibility had already been done.

You can read more about these issues in our article.

Riot Games Issues Official Response

In an X post from the official VCT EMEA account, Riot Games admitted the competitive experience so far has not met the standard players, fans, and talent deserve. They took full responsibility, promising swift and significant changes to the event infrastructure.

The immediate plan includes replacing all stage PCs with updated hardware. Two shipments of new equipment, one from the USA and another from Europe, were en route to the venue at the time of making the post. Riot’s goal is to ensure that future matches can be played on machines that meet the performance expectations of a top-tier esports tournament

Action Plan to Resolve Technical Issues

Riot outlined a detailed timeline to resolve the problems:

• April 28–30: Full audit of game server and PC interactions.
• April 29: Internal Rioter playtest.
• April 30: Pro player playtest under real match conditions.

During these tests, select VCT pros will stress-test the new hardware to simulate match conditions and provide feedback. Riot emphasized that ensuring flawless performance is their top priority before matches resume.

Assuming testing proceeds without major setbacks, Riot targets to resume offline matches later this week. Live audiences are expected to return for the playoff stage beginning May 8.

Compensation for Fans Affected

Riot has also rolled out a compensation package for fans who attended the disrupted matches on April 24. Those who traveled over 200 kilometers will receive:

• A ticket to the VCT Champions Grand Finals.
• Two tickets to VCT EMEA events.
• A €300 Riot Games merchandise voucher.
• An exclusive Riot Gun Buddy.

Attendees have been advised to check their emails for further details.

Riot Games understands that the burden is now on them to prove their commitment to the competitive integrity of VCT EMEA. With new equipment, exhaustive testing, and structural improvements underway, the hope is to quickly regain the trust of both players and fans. Riot concluded their statement with a promise: “We’ll see you back on stage very soon.”

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: Wojciech Wandzel/Riot Games