Apeks relegated from VCT EMEA after disappointing Stage 2 campaign

Their early exit from the group stage has not only ended their VCT campaign but also confirmed their place in the Challengers League for 2026.

The Norwegian-based organisation struggled throughout Stage 2, suffering four consecutive 2-1 defeats.

Their losses came against NAVI (16 July), Karmine Corp (23 July), Team Liquid (31 July), and Movistar KOI (6 August). These results placed Apeks at the bottom of the group, triggering automatic relegation under the VCT's updated competitive structure.

In July 2025, Riot Games introduced significant changes to the promotion-relegation system, making qualification for VCT more performance-based.

Now, only teams that reach the Stage 2 Playoffs are eligible to compete in the Ascension event - the gateway for Challengers League teams to move up.

Furthermore, newly promoted Ascension teams can extend their VCT tenure if they qualify for VALORANT Champions.

Unfortunately for Apeks, their failure to reach the Stage 2 Playoffs means they are ineligible for this year's Ascension event.

As a result, they will compete in VALORANT's tier-two scene in 2026, with no opportunity for immediate promotion.