VCT Pacific Stage 2 opens playoffs to Challengers teams

VCT Pacific Stage 2 gives four Challengers teams a route into the regional playoffs. The competition began July 16 and runs through September 6, with two direct places at Champions Shanghai available.

The format starts with 12 VCT Pacific teams split into two groups of six. Each group plays a single round robin of best-of-three series across four weeks.

The Play-In combines league and Challengers teams

The top two teams from each group advance directly to the Stage 2 playoffs. The other eight enter a 12-team double-elimination Play-In alongside four representatives from the regional Challengers leagues.

Group-stage position still carries value. The teams finishing third and fourth in each group receive a first-round upper-bracket bye. The top four teams from the Play-In then join the four direct qualifiers in the playoffs.

This structure creates an open path without erasing the results of the initial group stage. Challengers teams can reach the final bracket, while strong VCT group performances reduce the number of elimination matches required.

Eight teams contest the Champions places

The playoffs use an eight-team double-elimination bracket. Most matches are best-of-three; the lower final and grand final are best-of-five. First-place group teams receive an upper-bracket first-round bye, while the third- and fourth-place Play-In teams start in the lower bracket.

The top two finishers qualify directly for Champions 2026. Two more Pacific teams qualify through Championship points.

The seeding advantages show why every phase matters. Our VCT Americas Stage 2 guide offers a regional comparison, while our tournament format analysis explains the trade-offs between round robins and elimination brackets.

Group-stage matches are hosted at Sangam Colosseum in Seoul. Riot said ticket details for the Stage 2 Finals roadshow would be announced separately.

Source: Riot Games, June 23, 2026.