Recent hardware interference at VALORANT Champions 2026 in Shanghai triggered multiple tech pauses during group stage matches, primarily from conductivity issues in custom metal desks disrupting wireless mice and inputs. Riot identified the problem, implemented temporary fixes, mandated wired mice for players, and began rebuilding desks with alternative materials ahead of the playoffs. These measures reduced disruptions in later group matches, though one high-profile series saw four pauses on a single map plus a contested round rollback decision. The double-elimination playoff bracket features best-of-three and best-of-five series through the grand final on October 18, where any lingering peripheral or stage issues could extend series length and increase pause counts despite the fixes.