VCT Ascension EMEA 2025: Tournament expands from six to eight teams

Exciting news is coming to VCT Ascension EMEA, starting in October 2025. Last year, APEKS earned promotion to the main league but was relegated after losing all matches since Kickoff. Let’s see what’s in store this year!

VCT Ascension EMEA will finally take place in the Riot Games Arena with a live audience! Fans can attend the Berlin studio to watch their favorite teams in action. The tournament will also kick off a day earlier than usual. Six teams will compete on stage in a format featuring two seeded GSL groups, leading into two best-of-five Ascension Games. The winners will qualify for VCT EMEA 2026, with all matches played live on stage.

The tournament will follow a double-elimination format, with all matches played as best-of-three series. As the stakes rise, the competition culminates in best-of-five clashes for both the Lower Bracket Final and the Grand Final, where the Ascension champion will be crowned and secure a coveted spot in VCT EMEA next season. However, the big change is coming from the teams. This year, Riot Games is expanding the tournament from six to eight teams.

So far, BBL PCIFIC and Enterprise Esports are the only teams confirmed for VCT Ascension 2025, with several more spots still up for grabs. Meanwhile, Apeks and Gentle Mates have been relegated from VCT EMEA after failing to secure a place at Champions 2025 and falling short of the requirements to reach Ascension. As a result, their slots will be awarded to the fifth and sixth-ranked teams in Ascension Points. Next year, the tournament will promote two new teams to the VCT EMEA.

We’re excited to see which teams will secure the remaining spots in the main tournament. That's all for now. Stick around for more VALORANT news, guides, and updates on esports.gg.