OWCS MSC at EWC 26 Survival Guide

The 16 teams are split into two groups of eight, with each group playing a double-elimination bracket featuring best-of-three matches. The top four teams from each group advance to the Playoffs, where a single-elimination bracket will decide the OWCS 2026 MSC at EWC 26 title. Teams will also navigate the tournament's hero ban system, with each side banning one hero per map. A hero may only be banned once per series by each team.

The Raccoons are crazier than ever

Crazy Raccoons enter the OWCS 2026 MSC at EWC 26 as the team to beat. Long regarded as one of the world's strongest Overwatch rosters, they have backed up that reputation with major titles, including the inaugural Overwatch championship at the Esports World Cup in 2024 and the 2026 Champions Clash in Tokyo.

Now entering their third year together, the core lineup combines world-class individual talent with exceptional team chemistry. With continuity on their side and another trophy already secured this season, Crazy Raccoons arrive in Paris as one of the favorites to lift the title once again.

Defending champions look to soar once again

The defending Midseason champions return to Paris looking to defend their crown at EWC 26. Team Falcons’ roster retains key pieces from its championship-winning lineup, but the departure of star DPS duo Kim "Proper" Dong-hyun and Jeong "Stalk3r" Hak-yong has impacted the team’s recent results.

Despite finishing as runners-up in OWCS Korea Stage 1, their performances at the OWCS Asia Stage 1 Championship and OWCS Korea Stage 2 have raised questions about their ability to consistently compete against the world's best. Their run in Paris could serve as a defining moment for the team and shape the direction of the rest of their competitive season.

The superteam looking to win it all

ZETA DIVISION enters the OWCS 2026 MSC at EWC 26 after a season of regional dominance. As the No. 1 seed from Asia, the Japanese organization has built one of the most impressive résumés of 2026, winning both OWCS Korea Stage 1 and Stage 2, as well as the OWCS Asia Stage 1 Championship.

ZETA DIVISION and Crazy Raccoons will face off in Group B, meaning one of the most anticipated matchups in competitive Overwatch will take place early in the tournament. Both teams enter Paris as championship contenders, looking to prove they are the best team in the world and turn their regional dominance into international glory.

Club Championship

For many teams competing in the OWCS MSC at EWC 26, a strong finish could be the difference between remaining off the board and making a push in the Club Championship standings. Clubs near the top of the leaderboard, including AG.AL, Virtus.pro, and defending champions Team Falcons, will be looking to secure valuable points and move closer to claiming a larger share of the $30,000,000 prize pool.