Valorant Champions 2026 playoffs feature T1, NRG, Paper Rex, and LOUD

The Valorant Champions 2026 Playoff Stage begins on October 7, 2026, featuring high-stakes upper bracket quarterfinal matchups.

In the first series, T1 faces NRG. NRG enters the match as the reigning Valorant Champions winner and the Americas third seed, having performed strongly in the Group Stage. T1, the APAC fourth seed, has reached the furthest stage of a Champions event to date following a series of victories in the lower bracket.

The second quarterfinal features Paper Rex against LOUD. Paper Rex secured their playoff berth with consecutive 2-1 series wins against Team Liquid and G2. LOUD is noted for an aggressive playstyle supported by individual mechanical skill.

As the tournament utilizes a double-elimination format, winners from these series will advance to the upper bracket semifinals, while losers will drop to the lower bracket for a chance to remain in the competition.