Red Bull Home Ground Tokyo 2023 - All you need to know
The Red Bull Home Ground Valorant Tournament is back for its fourth year, and this time, it's setting its stage in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, Japan. After the electrifying 2022 competition in Manchester, UK, where 100 Thieves emerged as the champions, the world's best Valorant teams are once again converging, but this time at one of Tokyo's iconic venues, the historic Sumo arena Ryogoku Kokugikan.
A legendary venue: Ryogoku Kokugikan
The Ryogoku Kokugikan Arena, constructed in 1985, has witnessed countless sumo events, live gigs, and even Olympic-grade boxing matches. This time, it transforms into the proving ground for Valorant teams, welcoming both local Japanese talent and international giants.
With a seating capacity of over 10,000, the arena's iconic backdrop promises to set the stage for intense competition and fierce rivalries. The question on everyone's mind is, who will emerge as the victor in this historic location?
Ryogoku Kokugikan: a historic superdome to host legendary clashes in the Valorant competitive scenario (credits: Japan Times)Recapping the 2022 showdown in Manchester
In 2022, Red Bull Home Ground brought together eight of the world's finest Valorant teams in Manchester, UK, marking the final major event of the Valorant season for the year. Notably, it was the first time that North American teams were invited to join the European squads on their home turf, and they didn't disappoint. The tournament showcased thrilling gameplay, incredible upsets, and unwavering determination.
100T emerged victorious at the last edition of the tournament, back in 2022 (credits: Red Bull)Group Stage Battles
The event started with the Group Stage, where each team played three best-of-three matches. Cloud9 had a rough start, losing 2-1 to FOKUS but rebounded to secure a spot in the semi-finals. In Group B, 100 Thieves, the eventual champions, remained undefeated.
Quarter-Final surprises
Vitality dominated Heretics, securing a semi-final spot. KRÜ Esports upset Team Liquid, the defending champions, to reach the semi-finals.
Semi-Final action
Team Vitality faced 100 Thieves, with 100 Thieves winning the first game in overtime and advancing to the Grand Final. Cloud9 defeated KRÜ Esports on the other side.
The Grand final
The Grand Final featured 100 Thieves and Cloud9, with 100 Thieves winning on Bind and Fracture to become the Red Bull Home Ground 2022 champions.
Looking Forward to Red Bull Home Ground Tokyo 2023
As Red Bull Home Ground moves to Tokyo in 2023, fans can expect even more exhilarating Valorant action. The tournament will feature some of the world's most elite Valorant teams competing at the Ryogoku Kokugikan Arena. Teams like Fnatic, DRX, 100 Thieves, Cloud9, FENNEL, and FUT Esports are set to showcase their skills and vie for glory in Tokyo.
All participating teams of the Red Bull Home Ground tournament (credits: Red Bull Twitter)Top Teams to Watch in 2023
- Fnatic: A charismatic and talented team that has already secured significant victories in the Valorant scene.
- DRX: Hailing from South Korea, this team has shown immense promise and success in regional competitions.
- 100 Thieves: The reigning champions are ready to defend their title in Tokyo, bringing their North American prowess to the stage.
- Cloud9: After narrowly missing out on victory in 2022, Cloud9 is back with a vengeance, led by veteran IGL Anthony 'Vanity' Malaspina.
- FENNEL: As the Japanese representative, FENNEL carries home-ground advantage and a roster of rising talent.
- FUT Esports: Representing Turkey, FUT Esports is the underdog with a dominant performance in the EMEA qualifier.
The Talent Lineup
Red Bull Home Ground Tokyo 2023 boasts an exceptional talent lineup to provide viewers with expert analysis, insightful commentary, and engaging interviews. This year, the lineup includes:
- Iain Chambers: Hosting the event, Iain Chambers will guide the audience through the tournament's proceedings.
- Tom 'Tombizz' Bissmire, Mitchman, Achilios, and Paperthin: Serving as casters and analysts, this quartet will offer in-depth insights into the matches, player strategies, and the unfolding drama on the battlefield.
- Adam Savage: Joining the reporting and interviewing team, Adam Savage will contribute his expertise to provide an in-depth look at the players and their experiences during the tournament.
This diverse and talented group of professionals is set to enhance the viewing experience, ensuring that fans receive the most comprehensive coverage of Red Bull Home Ground Tokyo 2023.
Talent lineup for the Red Bull Home Ground 2023 tournament (credits: Red Bull)Catch the action live
To experience the thrilling matches of the tournament, you can tune in on Twitch and YouTube. Don't miss the chance to witness the world's best Valorant teams competing in the heart of Tokyo.
The question remains: who will emerge as the champions and etch their name into Valorant history in the iconic Ryogoku Kokugikan Arena?
Stay tuned to Strafe for more Valorant news and real-time updates of all competitive matches!
Feature image credits: Red Bull
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