Riot's June 2026 VCT 2027 announcements confirmed China will operate under a distinct visitor-team model within the new two-year partnership cycle, featuring eight partner teams plus two visitor teams and open qualifiers for Kickoff events. This preserves promotion-relegation dynamics unique to VCT CN while aligning with the global shift to a single-tier ecosystem and tournament-centric schedule. Partner teams across regions, including China, gain base payments, performance bonuses, and direct event entry, with applications evaluated on community growth and operations. Recent form in the 2026 China league and ongoing roster stability have reinforced expectations around established organizations retaining or securing spots ahead of the cycle start.