The realm of competitive gaming is about to enter an exhilarating new phase as Valorant’s Champion Tour (VCT) gears up for its 2025 season. With an expanded schedule, fresh locales, and enhanced opportunities for players and fans alike, the upcoming season promises to redefine the landscape of esports. And the excitement doesn’t stop there—China is set to host the 2026 Global Championship, marking a significant milestone in the game’s history.
A Bold Vision for 2025
Valorant’s 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic in the history of the game. According to Leo Faria, Global Head of Valorant Esports, “2025 is going to be an extraordinary year.” The season will feature a longer calendar, new league teams, an updated format, and exclusive new skins to celebrate Valorant’s fifth anniversary. With events spanning new global locations, including Bangkok, Toronto, and Paris, the tour will bring unprecedented excitement to fans worldwide.
The VCT’s season will commence in January and run through October, aligning with the rhythm of the game and esports to reduce off-seasons and provide teams with ample preparation time. The season opener will take place in Bangkok, a vibrant Southeast Asian hub, setting the stage for a year of intense competition. Following Bangkok, the tour will cross the Pacific to Toronto for the Second Masters Competition before concluding with the Global Championship in Paris. This progression of locations is designed to keep the competition fresh and engaging for fans across the globe.
A Milestone for China in 2026
Looking ahead, the 2026 VCT Global Championship will be held in China—a landmark event that reflects the growing prominence of the Chinese esports scene. After the successful integration of the Valorant CN (China) region, marked by the thrilling Shanghai Masters in May 2024 and EDG’s historic victory at the 2024 Global Championship, the spotlight will shine brightly on China’s esports potential.
The impact of the Shanghai Masters was palpable, with tickets selling out in less than 30 seconds, underscoring the event’s immense popularity and the increasing influence of Valorant in the region. The competition drew thousands of international attendees to Shanghai, demonstrating the global reach and appeal of the Valorant Championship Tour.
The Growing Influence of Chinese Esports
The 2024 Global Championship saw Chinese team EDG’s Valorant division clinch the title, overcoming EMEA’s third seed, TH, with a thrilling 3-2 victory. This win not only added a prestigious trophy to China’s esports portfolio but also highlighted the country’s competitive edge on the international stage. The victory significantly enhanced the global perception of Chinese esports, showcasing the exceptional skill and talent of its players.
EDG’s triumph has ignited a wave of enthusiasm among young gamers and bolstered the development of China’s esports ecosystem. It has drawn international attention to the country’s esports industry and set the stage for future growth and innovation.
As Valorant continues to expand its global footprint, the upcoming seasons are poised to offer even more thrilling experiences for players and fans. The introduction of new locations, revamped formats, and exclusive in-game content will create a more immersive and engaging environment for competitive play. The integration of Premier mode and revamped skins will further enhance the esports experience, making it easier for teams to progress and for fans to stay engaged.
With China set to host the 2026 Global Championship, the country’s role in the esports world will be further cemented. The event is anticipated to be a grand celebration of Valorant’s global success and a testament to the vibrant, rapidly evolving esports landscape in China.
In summary, the future of Valorant Esports looks incredibly promising, with exciting new developments on the horizon. The 2025 season will be a groundbreaking year for the game, setting the stage for an even more spectacular 2026 Global Championship in China. As Valorant continues to captivate audiences and elevate the esports scene, fans and players alike can look forward to an exhilarating journey ahead.
