Riot Games Introduces Global Contract Database for VCT International Leagues

Riot Games has launched the Global Contract Database (GCD) for the VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT) International Leagues. This database includes all players competing in the VCT International Leagues, with details on their contract durations.

Key Features of the Global Contract Database

• The GCD lists all players authorized by league officials, indicating who is eligible to play and the current roster status (Active/Reserve) for each team member.
• Contracts are added to the GCD when a VCT-partnered team submits the necessary documentation and receives approval for a new team member.
• The database includes contract end-dates for all team members and head coaches in the leagues and is publicly available online.

Contract Durations by Region

Here is a breakdown of contract lengths by region, including coaching staff, as of November 16, 2022:

| Year | Americas | EMEA | Pacific |
|——|———-|——|———|
| 2023 | 10 | 16 | 12 |
| 2024 | 43 | 35 | 34 |
| 2025 | 15 | 18 | 8 |
| 2026 | 1 | 1 | 17 |

Notable Contracts

• In the Americas, Cloud9’s Mateja “qpert” Mijović and in the EMEA, Team Liquid’s Ayaz “nAts” Akhmetshin are the only players with four-year contracts.
• In the Pacific, Team Secret and ZETA DIVISION have signed four-year contracts with their entire lineups, extending into 2026. Kim “stax” Gu-taek will also be under contract with DRX for four years, along with the Filipino trio in RRQ.

Team-by-Team Breakdown for the Pacific Region

Here is a detailed look at the contract status for players in the Pacific region:

• DRX: Kim “stax” Gu-taek is contracted for four years.
• RRQ: The Filipino trio is contracted for four years.
• Team Secret: Entire lineup is contracted for four years.
• ZETA DIVISION: Entire lineup is contracted for four years.
• NAVI: Mehmet “cNed” İpek is contracted for two years.
• Global Esports: Cahya “Monyet” Nugraha has a three-year contract, while the rest of the team has one-year contracts.

Importance of the Global Contract Database

The GCD provides transparency and clarity on player contracts, helping fans and teams alike understand the roster dynamics and future plans of VCT teams. This database is crucial for maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of the league.

The introduction of the Global Contract Database marks a significant step in professionalizing the VALORANT esports scene. Here are some additional points to consider:

Transparency and Fairness

The GCD ensures that all contract information is publicly available, promoting fairness and transparency within the league. This transparency helps in preventing disputes and misunderstandings about player contracts.

Player Security

Long-term contracts, such as the four-year deals seen in some teams, provide players with financial security and stability. This allows players to focus on their performance without the immediate pressure of contract renewals.

Team Planning

Teams can better plan their rosters and strategies with clear knowledge of contract durations. This helps in making informed decisions about player transfers, team compositions, and long-term goals.

Fan Engagement

Fans can now follow their favorite players and teams more closely, knowing exactly when contracts are set to expire. This enhances fan engagement and speculation about potential roster changes.

Competitive Balance

The GCD helps in maintaining competitive balance by ensuring that teams adhere to the rules and regulations regarding player contracts. This prevents any team from gaining an unfair advantage through unauthorized contract extensions or hidden agreements.

By providing this detailed and accessible information, Riot Games is setting a new standard for transparency and professionalism in esports, which will likely influence other competitive gaming leagues to follow suit.