The 2026 VCT Pacific Stage 1 kicked off on April 3rd, featuring an exciting showdown between Nongshim RedForce and Paper Rex, who met previously in the VALORANT Masters Santiago Grand Final.
Riot Games’ Pacific league returned to Seoul’s SOOP Colosseum for Stage 1, where the region’s representatives for Masters London will be determined. Stage 1 is scheduled to run from April 3rd to May 17th, with the highly anticipated Nongshim RedForce versus Paper Rex match set for Saturday, April 4th.
The match holds significance as Nongshim RedForce triumphed over Paper Rex with a 3-0 victory in the Masters Santiago final last month. The Korean team’s performance since Ascension Pacific has garnered attention, making them a standout in Stage 1.
Alpha Group, consisting of Gen.G, Nongshim RedForce, Kiwoom DRX, Paper Rex, and DRX, is expected to deliver intense matchups within the stage as four playoff spots are up for grabs.
Ahead of the opening week, several roster and coaching changes took place. Kiwoom DRX welcomed Kim ‘yong’ Ho-yong to their main team, while Team Secret added Dwine ‘Rimuru’ Enriquez and Gian ‘Zeus’ Vega. Their upcoming clash on Sunday, April 5th, will test the synergy of the revamped lineups.
Coaching adjustments were also a focal point before the stage began, with ZETA DIVISION appointing Ryota Okayama as Head Coach and reassigning former Head Coach Hibiki ‘XQQ’ Motoyama. Full Sense witnessed player Thanamet ‘Crws’ Mahatananuyut’s return and Thanapat ‘TheLuvFamily’ Limppapan taking on the role of Head Coach.
The opening day spotlighted Gen.G and T1, with Gen.G facing Global Esports in a rematch and T1 challenging VARREL. Both matches, part of VCT Pacific week one, were listed on Riot’s official schedule for April 3rd.
Gen.G seeks redemption after their previous loss to Global Esports, while T1 aims to start Stage 1 strong against the up-and-coming VARREL squad described as a dark horse in the competition.