DRX lose VCT partnership but plan to keep competing in 2027

KIWOOM DRX have confirmed that their VCT partnership ends in 2026. In a statement on 19 October, following the conclusion of Champions Shanghai, the organisation said it had not been selected for the 2027 programme and reaffirmed its commitment to competitive VALORANT.

VLR and The Esports Advocate both report DRX’s intention to remain in the scene. That is the confirmed organisational position. The announcement does not, by itself, establish which players will represent DRX next season.

A place on the circuit can still be earned

Riot’s published 2027 format gives Pacific Kickoff 12 places: eight partner teams and four teams arriving through open qualification. Partners enter Kickoff directly, while open teams can qualify through competition. DRX’s loss of partner status therefore leaves a competitive route available.

The format also changes what happens after Kickoff. Partner teams do not automatically enter every Cup; results determine progression. Teams dropping out of the leading positions must work through the open pathway to return.

What fans can reasonably expect next

For Pacific viewers, the immediate story is DRX’s commitment to continue and the different route ahead. Roster announcements and qualifier participation will show how that plan develops. A list assembled from reports about other organisations should still be distinguished from Riot’s official announcements.