The confetti from VALORANT Champions 2026 had barely settled when the transfer market began to move. In the last week alone, several well-known names and entire organisations have made headlines, and it is already clear that the 2027 season will look very different from the one that just ended. Here is a rundown of the biggest changes, based on reports from the VLR.gg news desk.
Vitality part ways with Derke
The most talked-about move is Team Vitality’s decision to part ways with Derke. Vitality had just reached the grand final of VALORANT’s biggest event of the year, where they fell 3-1 to LOUD, so the timing surprises many observers. A finalist letting a high-profile duelist go suggests that the roster is being reshaped around a new vision rather than patched after a disappointing result. Where Derke lands next will be one of the main storylines of the winter.
Wendler leaves Paper Rex
Also on the move is Wendler, who is leaving Paper Rex after nearly a year with the team. Paper Rex have long been one of the most entertaining sides in the Pacific region, and any change to their lineup tends to ripple through the regional competitive picture. With the new partnership cycle approaching, teams are re-evaluating both talent and chemistry, and a player available on the open market will attract plenty of interest.
MIBR goes inactive, Evil Geniuses close their doors
Off the server, the news is more sobering. MIBR have moved their full roster to inactive status, while Evil Geniuses have announced that they are ceasing operations. Evil Geniuses were once one of the best-known names in North American esports, and their exit is another reminder of how fragile the business side of competitive gaming can be. It follows a string of organisations scaling back or shutting down in recent weeks.
Why it matters for 2027
Riot has already confirmed the partner teams for the 2027 VCT across Americas, EMEA, Pacific and China, and the Kickoff Qualifiers are scheduled to begin in November. That means rosters have to be finalised quickly, and the next few weeks will likely bring a flood of signings, benchings and surprise reunions. Meanwhile, the Game Changers Championship in São Paulo and the VCT China Threshold are still running, so there is plenty of competitive action to follow alongside the transfer drama.
What it means for bettors
Roster changes are one of the biggest sources of uncertainty in esports betting. Odds for early 2027 events can swing dramatically once new lineups are confirmed, and a team’s form with a fresh roster is often hard to judge in the first weeks. Anyone looking at futures markets should wait for confirmed rosters, compare prices across providers and check the terms of any esports betting bonuses before depositing. Please bet responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose.
We will keep following the Valorant transfer window as the Kickoff Qualifiers approach.
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