Leo Faria, Global Head of VALORANT Esports, has dismissed a recent report by ATUALIZADO claiming the launch of a VCT South American partnership league.
While Faria mentioned on X (Twitter) that changes are coming in 2027, something Riot Games had already announced in May 2025, he clarified that the report is ultimately false.
“This is top of mind for us and changes are coming in 2027 to address it. But this report is false,” stated Faria.
Despite this, ATUALIZADO has stood by its claims, stating that a dedicated league is being considered by Riot and it is still a “possibility” for 2027.
According to the report, the VCT South American franchised league would include both Brazilian and South American teams, featuring a mix of partnered and tier-two organisations. As a result, it would create a separate league from the already existing VCT Americas league.
The structure is said to mirror what Riot is currently using for League of Legends’ LTA, which has a North and South league, with applications expected to open around mid-2026.
“With the goal of preparing for this future, some organisations are already taking action. Names like RED Canids, LOS, and Team Solid have been increasingly investing in the VALORANT Challengers Brazil (VCB),” the report stated.
Even if parts of the report are accurate, it could simply be one of many ideas Riot has explored on a surface level.
Talking about the organisations showing interest in the VALORANT scene, this could also be in preparation for VCT Americas partnership applications for the next tenure.
Riot Games’ plans for VCT 2027
During VALORANT’s fifth anniversary, Riot Games announced it will be revamping the 2027 VCT circuit to bridge the gap between tier-two and tier-one leagues.
Multiple new tournaments, formats, and event locations will be explored as part of the plans, with the goal to attract fresh investments and raise the stakes for Challengers.
The publisher will share more details by the end of 2025; however, partnerships will continue to be the foundation of the VALORANT esports ecosystem.
