2022 VCT Stage 1 Challengers NA Main Event - Primer

Feb 8, 2022

Welcome back Radiants. 

Over 100 teams have battled it out these past two weekends to earn the final eight spots for the 2022 VCT Stage 1 - Challengers NA - Main Event. The stage is set, and the top 12 NA teams will now go head-to-head for a chance at valuable NA Circuit Points and a trip to VCT Stage 1 - Masters.

Here’s everything you need to know about the 2022 VCT Stage 1 - Challengers NA - Main Event.

EVENT DATES

The Main Event kicks off this weekend, starting on February 11 and running through March 13. Playoffs to decide who goes to Masters start March 17.

EVENT OVERVIEW

The 12 qualified teams join us from three different pools: Four teams automatically qualified based on their 2021 performance, four teams qualified through Open Qualifier #1, and four teams qualified through Open Qualifier #2.

These 12 teams have been split into two groups of six via a group draw conducted in front of each participating organization’s representatives. Teams were then split into pools based on how they qualified, with byes taking top priority, followed by OQ #1 Upper Bracket and Lower Bracket, then OQ #2 Upper Bracket and Lower Bracket.

Matches are slated for every Friday through Sunday for the duration of the Main Event. All match days are scheduled to begin at 1 PM PST, and all matches will be a best-of-three format, so get ready for over a month of the best VALORANT North America has to offer.

Will we see last year’s head-turners remain on their perch? Or will we see the up-and-comers establish a new pecking order? We’ll find out together over the next month and a half.

QUALIFIED TEAMS

PLAYOFFS

At the end of it all, the top eight teams will advance to the Stage 1 Playoffs, which begin on March 17.

The playoffs will be double-elimination format, with matches being played on Thursday through Sunday for two weeks. All matches will be best-of-three format until the Lower Final and Grand Final, which will both be best-of-five.

Only two teams will receive their golden tickets to VCT Stage 1 - Masters, so make sure to tune in to find out who will represent the region at the first international showdown.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE

WHERE TO WATCH

You’ll be able to catch the best VALORANT action on YouTube and across our Twitch channels:

• Twitch.tv/valorant 
• Twitch.tv/valorantesports2 (backup)

CO-STREAMING

Anyone who wishes to host a Watch Party must read and agree to our VCT Co-streaming Guidelines and comply with the following steps in order to gain permission to co-stream the event:

• If you’re broadcasting from North America, sign up to host a Watch Party here. All NA Watch Parties must comply with the Watch Party Guidelines. If you can do both, you’re clear to kick off your Watch Party come game day.
• If you’re broadcasting from anywhere else in the world, apply to host an International Watch Party here. Then, keep an eye on your email. Please allow a few days for review. If your application is approved you’ll receive a message from us giving you permission.

If you’ve already signed up or been approved for VCT Stage 1, you’re set to continue to co-stream.

PARTNERS

Red Bull is the official energy drink of VCT, presenting the Red Bull “Clutch Moment” during every match. Red Bull is also helping prepare the next generation of VALORANT pros by hosting community VALORANT tournaments, spotlighting the incredible grassroots talent of the scene.

Verizon is the official 5G and wireless services provider of the VCT. In addition to top-shelf video content and sponsored broadcast segments, Verizon ups our game through the Verizon Up rewards program, which features discounted in-game digital goods for the community to enjoy.

Aim Lab is the official training partner of VCT, helping develop existing VALORANT pros and players trying to break into the professional scene with a variety of innovative training programs and custom insights.

Secretlab provides VCT pros with the pinnacle of gaming seats — each designed and engineered using the highest quality materials and manufacturing techniques to ensure absolute comfort and unparalleled support.

Prime Gaming provides a premium VCT viewing experience, including exclusive in-game content, on Twitch as a part of Amazon Prime and Prime Video memberships.