Registration for TI 2026 is open on the official pro team site, with a hard deadline at 2:00 PM PDT on May 18; late entries and direct invitations for those outside the window won’t be accommodated.

All registration steps must be completed by the same 2:00 PM PDT deadline on May 18, 2026; missing it forfeits direct invitations and disqualifies teams from Regional Qualifiers.

China remains central to TI 2026, with a passionate fanbase and historic, high-energy runs from CN teams; a return to China is expected to create a favorable home atmosphere and sharpen competition.

A participation agreement now governs registration, requiring teams to ensure fair and equal treatment of players and to review and sign before finalizing.

The registration emphasizes player welfare and competitive integrity, mandating a participation agreement that enforces fair, transparent, and equal treatment of all players.

Team representatives must sign the participation agreement to guarantee equal and fair treatment of all players.

Note that HEROIC has left the professional Dota 2 scene, which could affect eligibility or competition dynamics.

Valve has opened registrations for The International 2026, to be held in China in August 2026.

The International 2026 marks a return to China, reflecting the country’s strong Dota 2 fanbase and anticipated vibrant atmosphere.

TI 2026 will take place in August in China, with registration now open for teams.

Valve has not yet released details on direct invitations, regional qualifier formats, or ticket sales, with more information expected later in May.

Additional updates are planned before the end of May, including finalized direct invitations, Regional Qualifier formats, and ticket sale details for the China live event.