Riot has announced the removal of Apeks from the VCT EMEA League ahead of the 2026 season, after being eliminated by GoNext Esports in the Lower Bracket Round 1 in this year's EMEA Ascension. Their descent to Tier 2 was caused by Apeks failing to make Split 2 playoffs in the EMEA League earlier this year. Their slot will be taken up by CGN Esports, who most recently finished third at last year's EMEA Ascension.
CGN Esports looked ready to emerge victorious in last year's Ascension. The team dominated the VCL DACH scene and made their way all the way to the lower final of EMEA Ascension 2024, but fell in a demoralizing three-map beatdown to BBL PCIFIC.
Riot has stated that their vacant slot will now be occupied by CGN, while the EMEA League will continue with 12 teams next year.
CGN are guaranteed this upcoming year, but according to the revised rule set regarding ascended teams, their performance within the VCT will most likely determine how long their stay lasts.
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