Riot Games has awarded a second Valorant Champions Tour Pacific franchise to an Australian ownership group based in Sydney. The team will debut in Stage 2 of the 2026 season with a mixed roster of local talent and experienced imports from Korea and Thailand.
Franchise Details
- Home studio broadcasts from Parramatta creative precinct
- Minimum roster salary floor aligned with league standards
- Academy team competing in Challengers OCE
Pacific League Teams (Australia)
| Team | City | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| Existing franchise | Melbourne | 2024 |
| New franchise | Sydney | 2026 Stage 2 |
Pathway for Players
- Challengers OCE winner earns promotion match opportunity.
- Open combine sessions scheduled in Brisbane and Perth.
- High-performance visas expedited for qualified imports.
Esports Australia said the expansion validates years of grassroots tournament investment.
