The Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) 2026 has introduced an exciting format with the inaugural Kick-Off Weekend, taking place from December 5 to December 7, 2025. This unique event brings together the top four teams from Europe and North America in a battle for supremacy, right after a series of online open qualifiers.
RLCS 2026 Kick-Off Weekend Overview
This tournament marks a distinctive beginning for the new season in Rocket League esports. Teams are not only competing for glory but also for a coveted spot in the Boston Major scheduled for February 2026. The Kick-Off Weekend features offline matches, enriching the competitive spirit.
Event Schedule
- Friday, December 5: EU Open 1 Finals
- Saturday, December 6: NA Open 1 Finals
- Sunday, December 7: EU vs NA Finals
Tournament Highlights
The RLCS 2026 Kick-Off Weekend serves as a platform for established teams and emerging talents. Notably, NRG, the reigning 2025 World Champions, is absent from this year’s event, creating opportunities for new faces.
European contender Karmine Corp, the champions of the previous season, has successfully navigated the qualifiers, while Team Vitality faces challenges without key player M0nkey M00n. The Ninjas in Pyjamas, now with a revamped roster, have also secured their place in the Kick-Off Weekend.
Key Matches
Both regions will have their finals leading to the decisive match between EU and NA teams:
- EU Open 1 Finals: Karmine Corp vs TBD, Team Vitality vs Gentle Mates
- NA Open 1 Finals: FUT Esports vs Shopify Rebellion, 100X35 Esports vs Gen.G
Upcoming Talents in Rocket League
The Kick-Off Weekend is notable for the presence of newer teams like Manchester City Esports and NOVO Esports, both looking to make their mark. In North America, the new organization [REDACTED] features players with regional experience, such as Jayden “2Piece” Horton.
Spacestation Gaming is another refreshed roster competing in this tournament, highlighting the dynamism in North American Rocket League.
Watch the Action Live
Fans can catch all the RLCS 2026 Kick-Off Weekend matches streaming live on the official YouTube channel of Rocket League Esports. The competitive atmosphere combined with thrilling gameplay promises an exciting showcase of talent.
As the tournament unfolds, both veterans and newcomers will be vying for a chance to advance to the major stage in Boston, vying for the title of best Rocket League team in the world. The Kick-Off Weekend sets the stage perfectly for what promises to be an exhilarating RLCS season.
