Ukrainian esports powerhouse NAVI is shaking up the competitive scene with its upcoming strategic shift for the 2026 Brawl Stars season. Leaving behind its previous stronghold in East Asia, NAVI is set to take on a fresh challenge in the EMEA region, armed with an entirely new lineup.
NAVI’s New Direction
In an exciting announcement made on December 11th, 2025, NAVI shared its decision to part ways with its Japanese roster, which included the celebrated two-time world champion ‘Achapi’. Coupled with this change, NAVI is actively seeking strong teams to represent its banner in 2026. This move marks a significant pivot for NAVI as it aims to replicate its East Asian success on a new stage.
During 2025, NAVI firmly established itself as a dominant force in East Asia, capturing second place in the RVL Challengers League Grand Final and consistently securing top-three finishes throughout the year. Despite its achievements, the team concluded the year in early October after falling short against Papara SuperMassive in the Brawl Stars Championship 2025 last-chance qualifier.
Brawl Stars In 2026
With the curtain closed on the Brawl Stars World Finals 2025, Supercell is already setting the stage for an exhilarating 2026. The developer has teamed up with tournament organizer BLAST in a multi-year partnership designed to elevate the Brawl Stars esports experience. This collaboration will introduce an expansive global event calendar, featuring online splits and high-profile LAN tournaments, starting with the Brawl Cup in May. Along with a revamped format, the season will boast a $2 million prize pool and innovative new broadcast elements.
NAVI, having demonstrated its strength in the East Asian circuit, is now poised to compete in the EMEA region—home to some of the most formidable teams in the world—seeking to continue its legacy of success. Meanwhile, another notable shift in the competitive landscape sees Brazilian esports organization Casa Brawl E-Sports also making roster changes following a top-eight finish in the last-chance qualifier.