Chinese Dota 2 veterans return for The International 2026 qualifiers

A number of well-known veterans have returned for the open qualifiers of The International 2026 in the Chinese region, with Team Refuser emerging as one of the most notable rosters. The team features Du Monet Peng, Zhang Paparazi Chengjun, Zhou Yang Haiyang and Ye BoBoKa Zhibiao.

These players previously represented some of China's strongest teams, while Paparazi was regarded as one of the world's best mid laners for many years. After retiring in 2023, he only made occasional appearances on the professional scene, mainly through qualifiers for major tournaments.

Game Master has also assembled an intriguing roster featuring Jin flyfly Zhiyi, Xiong Pyw Jiahan, Kam Moon Boon Seng and Thiay JT- Jun Wen. It is worth noting that JT- and Moon were still playing for Yakult Brothers until recently, but the organization decided to revamp its lineup and replace players in their respective roles.

Notably, one of Yakult new additions is Hu kaka Liang, who spent many years with top Chinese teams and repeatedly finished among the top three at Dota 2's premier annual event.

Another stack was formed by The International 2012 champion Jiang YYF Cen, who defeated Natus Vincere in the grand final as part of Invictus Gaming. Joining him is Liu Sylar Jiajun, who came close to winning TI on several occasions, finishing as a runner-up contender in 2012, 2014 and 2015.

Another contender for a spot in the next stage is the duo of Xiang Beyond Zhenghong and Li Undyne Qiancheng. Both players were part of CDEC Gaming in 2021 and 2022, helping the team win several consecutive tours of the Chinese DPC second division.

Other notable participants include Chen Hao Zhihao, the TI4 champion with Newbee, He Inflame Yongzheng, who finished third at The International 2017 with LGD Gaming, and Pan Frisk Yi, best known for his time with Vici Gaming in 2019 when the team won several major tournaments.

Most of these players have long since stepped away from tier-one competition, but continue to return periodically for qualifiers and local events.

The Chinese regional qualifiers will take place from 15.06.2026 to 18.06.2026. Two teams will earn spots at the main event of the season.

The International 2026 will be held in Shanghai, China, from 13.08.2026 to 23.08.2026. The tournament's starting prize pool is $1,600,000, while nine teams from regional qualifiers will join the seven directly invited participants.

Earlier, Cyberscore reported that the organizers of the 1Win Essence series had unveiled the tournament calendar through the end of the year.