We are retaining the VCT circuit as it is
Tier 2 teams should not be scared. They still can participate in Riot-organized tournaments. Each major region (Americas, Asia and EMEA) is divided into multiple leagues. There are some changes to some minor regions like South Asia, Oceania and MENA shifting from tournaments like VCC and VOT which were mostly 3rd party ventures till now to official Riot leagues no different from the rest.
These teams qualify for a tournament called challengers ascended which is just basically a new name for existing tournaments like VCT APAC and VCT NA. Except this time, it will most probably reflect the franchising regions (Asia will compete as a whole instead of just APAC+SA +Oce in one tournament and KR and JP in others).
Teams who win the Challengers ascended will get promoted to the franchised leagues. Their contract will however be a short term of only 2 years. In comparison franchised teams are expected to cycle every 4 years. Through this "promotional period," they are expected to get new fans and hopefully become strong contenders for the next franchising reshuffle.
Teams who win the Challengers ascended will get promoted to the franchised leagues
Teams who win the Challengers ascended will get promoted to the franchised leagues
Teams who win the Challengers ascended will get promoted to the franchised leagues
Teams who win the Challengers ascended will get promoted to the franchised leagues
paper rex gets to franchise by winning not by VC money like bleed
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