In case you missed it, the Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) is set for a major overhaul in 2025, with significant changes aimed at shaking up the Ascension system and offering new opportunities for teams to climb the ranks. These tweaks put a premium on consistent performance, creating a more competitive landscape for aspiring high tier contenders.
Previously, Ascension teams enjoyed a guaranteed two-year stay in the top league before returning to the Challengers bracket. This safety net is being replaced with a one-year promotion by default, starting next year. However, this isn’t a demotion – it’s a chance to prove their mettle. Top performers will have the chance to extend their stay in the big leagues based on their results.
Here’s where things get interesting: Ascension teams that light up the international VCT leagues will be rewarded with extended stays. If both Ascension teams manage to qualify for the ultimate stage – Champions – the one with the stronger showing gets to keep their spot, while the other will have a shot at redemption in the following year’s Ascension tournament.
Ascension teams won’t be left out in the cold if they miss out on Champions qualification but still show promise. Teams finishing between fifth and eighth in their regional leagues will get a lifeline: an automatic berth in the following year’s Ascension tournament. This way, it will give them a crucial second chance to battle their way back into the top tier competition.
Finally, teams that struggle to make a mark will be relegated back to the Challengers League. However, if both Ascension teams face relegation, the system ensures no spots are left empty. Fresh blood will be injected into the system, with two new teams from Challengers earning the right to challenge the established elite. This constant churn keeps the scene exciting and ensures that only the strongest can remain at the top.
