In this update3
Full notes
Full War Thunder update
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What changed
- Events
- Gameplay
- Maps
As the dust settles on an unforgettable 2025 season, we stand on the threshold of a brand new year for War Thunder Esports, with 2026 promising to be bigger, bolder, and more competitive than ever.
This year, War Thunder Esports continues its evolution with refined formats, higher stakes, and expanded opportunities for players across the globe. From rising talents to seasoned veterans, 2026 is designed to reward skill, dedication, and strategic mastery at every level of play.
Throughout the year, the competitive calendar will once again be shaped by a series of major events, each pushing teams to their limits and offering unforgettable moments for players and spectators alike. New challenges await, familiar rivalries return, and the path to glory has never been clearer or more demanding.
In this announcement, we’ll take you through what’s new for 2026 and what to expect from the upcoming competitive season.
New year. New battles. New champions.
Welcome to the 2026 WTCS Season!
War Thunder Esports Calendar 2026: An Overview
The 2026 War Thunder Esports season is structured around a full-year competitive calendar, designed to provide consistent high-level competition while maintaining a clear progression from early-season majors to decisive grand finals.
The year is divided into four quarters, each playing a distinct role in the competitive ecosystem, with parallel paths for professional and challenger-level teams.
Seasonal Structure
Important Notice: Teams that qualify for and earn points in the Pro League are strictly prohibited from participating in the Challenger League. Likewise, teams that qualify for and earn points in the Challenger League are not allowed to participate in the Pro League. Playing on secondary accounts to participate in both leagues is also strictly prohibited.
Any player or team that fails to comply with this regulation will be fully disqualified for the entire season.
The competitive season revolves around two main circuits.
WTCS Pro League, featuring the highest-ranked teams. Teams participating in the Pro League will have the opportunity to compete for cash prizes at each Major event.
Pro League Major I: 4v4 Mixed Battle RB (with markers) / Bo5 / 5 000 Euros
Pro League Major II: 4v4 Air Battle RB / Bo7 / 5 000 Euros
Pro League Major III: 4v4 Tank Battle RB (with markers) / Bo5 / 5 000 Euros
Pro League Grand Final: 4v4 All mode 15 000 Euros
WTCS Challenger League, offering emerging teams a pathway to the top level. Both leagues follow a similar structure but different lineups, ensuring competitive balance and clear opportunities for progression.
Challenger League Major I: 4v4 Mixed Battle RB (with markers) / Bo5
Challenger League Major II: 4v4 Air Battle RB / Bo7
Challenger League Major III: 4v4 Tank Battle RB (with markers) / Bo5
Challenger League Grand Final: 4v4 All mode
You’ll notice differences in the lineups and formats offered between each league, with the Pro League primarily focused on top-tier vehicles, while the Challenger League is designed around lower-tier vehicles.
Training sessions will be made available every week, from Wednesday to Sunday, on our tournament platform.
Prizes and Rewards
The prizes will be announced ahead of each Major, as will the partners who will be supporting both of the leagues throughout the 2026 season!
This is one of the most important differences between the two leagues.
This year, the Professional League will feature a total cash prize pool of €30,000. The top eight Grand Final teams will also have
Source
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