From March 3 to 9, the first stage of the 2025 Challengers season will be held, featuring second-tier teams from across the EMEA region competing for a chance to qualify for the main VCT EMEA tournament at the end of the year, as summarized by Esports Insider. The tournament promises to showcase emerging talents and provide a platform for teams to prove themselves on a larger stage.
Allocation of Spots for Challengers EMEA Split 1
All spots for Challengers EMEA Split 1 have already been allocated, with various teams from different regions securing their positions:
- VALORANT Challengers 2025 DACH: Evolution Stage 1 — FOKUS (1st place) and CGN Esports (2nd place)
- VALORANT Challengers 2025 France: Revolution Stage 1 — Joblife (1st place) and Mandatory (2nd place)
- VALORANT Challengers 2025 NORTH//EAST: Stage 1 — Team Liquid Academy (1st place), Szach Mat (2nd place), Enterprise Esports (3rd place), and Metizport (4th place)
- VALORANT Challengers 2025 Spain: Rising Stage 1 — HGE Esports (TBD) and DNSTY (TBD)
- VALORANT Challengers 2025 Turkey: Birlik Kickoff Split — BBL PCIFIC (1st place) and Eternal Fire (2nd place)
New VCT Challengers EMEA Format
Following the changes announced by Riot Games in June, the EMEA Challengers ecosystem format has been revamped. The tournament is now divided into three stages instead of two. The new format aims to provide a more structured and competitive environment for the teams.
Group Stage
The first stage is a group stage with four groups competing in a single round-robin format. This stage will determine the teams that advance to the playoffs, ensuring that the best-performing teams get a fair chance to showcase their skills.
Playoff Stage
The winner of the tournament will be determined in a double-elimination playoff from March 6-9. All matches will be played in a BO3 format, with the exception of the lower bracket final and the Grand Final, which will be BO5. This format adds an extra layer of excitement and challenge for the teams, as they must navigate through intense competition to emerge victorious.
Introduction of the Ascension Points System
One of the significant changes to the EMEA Challengers includes the introduction of the Ascension Points system for the first time. Participants can earn points in both the Challenger regionals and the EMEA main stages. Higher tournament finishes earn more points, increasing a team’s chances of participating in the annual Ascension tournament.
The Path to VCT Tier 1
The Ascension winner, which may include previous Ascension winners, earns a one-year spot in the EMEA VCT Tier 1 scheme. This opportunity provides teams with a chance to compete at the highest level and gain valuable experience against top-tier competition.
Conclusion
The changes to the 2025 Challengers season and the introduction of the Ascension Points system are set to create a more competitive and dynamic environment for the teams. With new formats and opportunities, the upcoming season promises to be an exciting journey for both the players and the fans. Stay tuned for more updates as the tournament unfolds and the battle for the top spot intensifies.
Great opportunities for emerging talent in the 2025 season
Can’t wait to watch the Challengers and see who rises to the top
Excited to see how the new format will impact the competition