Riot Games' overhaul of the VCT structure for 2027 reduces Americas partner teams from ten to eight in a new two-year cycle, with selections based on applications emphasizing community growth, fan engagement, operational stability, and competitive results. Direct entry into regional Kickoffs comes with base funding plus performance and skin-sale bonuses reaching up to $5 million annually, though partnered squads must still earn advancement through Cups rather than automatic qualification. The process remains open to both current and non-partnered organizations, with final announcements expected after Champions 2026 and open qualifiers providing four additional slots per major event. Trader sentiment reflects ongoing roster evaluations and recent form heading into the decisive qualification window.