The 2026 VALORANT Champions Tour Pacific Kickoff begins Thursday, opening a new season of competition as teams chase early momentum and a limited number of international berths. The Kickoff marks the first official stage of the Pacific League calendar, with three spots at Masters Santiago on the line.

The opening week brings immediate intrigue, highlighted by a clash between Nongshim RedForce and Team Secret. Nongshim enters the season with a reinforced roster following the additions of veteran flex player Koo “Rb” Sang-min and rookie Jung “Xross” Hwan. Rb’s return to Pacific play after a stint in another region will be closely watched, particularly in how his experience translates into leadership and structure for a retooled lineup.

Team Secret, meanwhile, arrives after one of the most sweeping offseasons in the league. The organization rebuilt both its roster and coaching staff, retaining only long-time cornerstone Jessie “JessiVash” Cuyco. With limited stage time together, the opening match will test how quickly the new group can establish cohesion under pressure.

Another focal point of Week 1 is the Pacific League debut of Ascension champions Barrel, who earned promotion with an undefeated run in 2025. Their first test comes against Global Esports, a team that also opted for significant changes while keeping a small core intact. The matchup offers an early measuring stick for how Ascension success translates to the top tier.

2026 VCT Pacific Kickoff – Week 1 Preview

Beyond individual matches, the Kickoff reflects a broader reset across the region. Several organizations used the offseason to overhaul coaching structures and player roles, signaling a willingness to adapt to evolving strategies and the current competitive meta. Established contenders such as T1, Gen.G, DRX and Paper Rex all introduced targeted changes aimed at maintaining consistency while raising their competitive ceiling.

The tournament itself also debuts notable format updates. A new “Triple Elimination” system gives teams multiple chances to recover from early losses, a move designed to reward consistency over a longer arc of play. In addition, a “Brawl Mode” has been added to the map selection process, introducing a one-on-one duel to determine priority in certain matchups.

The 2026 VCT Pacific Kickoff runs at the SOOP Colosseum in Seoul and serves as the first step on the road to Masters Santiago in March. With only three teams advancing, opening week results could prove critical in shaping the rest of the season.

Developed and published by Riot Games, VALORANT continues to anchor a global esports ecosystem built around regional leagues and international events. The Pacific Kickoff sets the tone for that journey in 2026, as rebuilt rosters and new systems collide from the very first match.