VCT EMEA Hits the Road – Barcelona to Host Stage 2 Finals

For the first time in VCT EMEA history, the production is taking off from the Berlin studio. The Stage 2 finals are set to be hosted in Barcelona, from August 28^th to the 30^th, confirming the dev update last month.

Spain Emerges as EMEA Finals Destination

While Madrid was originally circled as the finals destination, Riot Games has confirmed that while it has now shifted to Barcelona, Spain will remain as the host country. Set to be hosted in the Olímpic Arena in Badalona, the arena was originally built to host the Olympic Games back in 1992 and has since hosted numerous sports and entertainment events.

*More information is expected to come regarding the format and ticketing.

“Bringing a major live event to fans has been a long-term focus for the team, so we’re really excited to host the Stage 2 Finals in Spain later this year. The Spanish VALORANT community is known for its passion and energy, and we can’t wait to see that atmosphere elevate one of the biggest moments of the VALORANT EMEA calendar year.” – Daniel Ringland, Head of VALORANT Esports

2026 Stage 2 Pits Challengers Against Champions

As previously announced, this year’s format for VCT seeks to better incorporate the Tier 2 Challenger circuits into the existing VCT EMEA system. Quick reminder, the EMEA Challengers circuits in 2026 offers legitimate opportunities for Tier 2 teams to brush shoulders and compete against the best teams in the league.

Firstly, the top 3 performing teams from Challengers Stage 3 (set to run from mid-June into the early parts of July) will immediately qualify for VCT EMEA Stage 2 Play-Ins. However, a 4^th team will also attend the aforementioned Play-Ins via a Last Chance Qualifier tournament set to take place following the conclusion of Challengers Stage 3.

VCT EMEA 2026 Calendar (Source: Riot Games)

This year, VCT EMEA Stage 2 will consist of three stages: the Group Stage, Play-Ins, and Playoffs. A total of 8 teams will be in attendance for Playoffs, 4 from the Group Stage and 4 from Play-Ins.

It’s been confirmed that the Group Stage will remain in Berlin. However, it remains uncertain at this juncture if Play-Ins or the rest of Playoffs (aside from the finals) will remain in Berlin as well. Given the extended timeline of stay in Barcelona, it is likely that both the Lower and Grand Finals will feature on the Spanish stage.

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Featured Image Credit: VCT EMEA // Riot Games

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