VCT Americas Kickoff 2026: FURIA, G2, NRG Qualify
- Miguel Méndez
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
The VCT Americas Kickoff 2026 has officially determined the Americas representatives for the first international VALORANT event of the year. After weeks of intense competition, FURIA, G2 Esports, and NRG secured qualification for Masters Santiago.
The start-of-season tournament delivered multiple high-stakes matchups, culminating in a dramatic five-map thriller that finalized the region’s lineup.
NRG Completes Reverse Sweep at VCT Americas Kickoff 2026
The VCT Americas Kickoff 2026 concluded on Sunday, Feb. 15, with a decisive series between MIBR and NRG, who battled for the final Masters Santiago slot.
NRG completed a stunning reverse sweep to defeat MIBR 3–2 and secure qualification. The reigning world champion started the series on the back foot, suffering a 13–9 loss on Bind followed by a 13–5 defeat on Corrode. Facing elimination, NRG needed a response — and delivered.
On Split, the team regained composure and shifted momentum. That confidence carried into Abyss and Haven, where NRG dominated with commanding 13–4 and 13–5 victories to close out the series.
Brock “brawk” Somerhalder played a pivotal role in the comeback performance, helping NRG punch its ticket to Masters Santiago and continue its international campaign.
Americas Representatives Confirmed for Masters Santiago
With its victory, NRG joins G2 Esports and FURIA, who had already secured qualification earlier in the VCT Americas Kickoff 2026.
G2 Esports — known as The Samurai — handled business against MIBR on Saturday, Feb. 14, delivering a clean 3–0 sweep to advance to their sixth consecutive international tournament.
FURIA became the first Americas team to qualify after defeating MIBR 3–2 in the upper bracket final. The Brazilian organization captured its first Kickoff title and returns to international competition following several seasons of inconsistent results.
Masters Santiago Set to Begin February 28
Masters Santiago will begin on Feb. 28 and feature 12 teams competing in Santiago, Chile. The tournament marks the first Masters event hosted in South America.
FURIA, G2 Esports, and NRG will aim to keep the Americas region at the top of the global power rankings as the international VALORANT season officially begins.
