Play! Pokémon has updated its competitive rules and resources for the third quarter of 2026, introducing clarifications and several changes for Pokémon TCG, Pokémon VGC, Pokémon GO and League events ahead of upcoming competitions. The Play! Pokémon Tournament Rules Handbook now clarifies World Championships eligibility, match-start procedures, Junior, Senior and Masters age divisions and game-version requirements, while asymmetrical top cuts are capped at 16 competitors for Pokémon TCG and 32 for Pokémon VGC and Pokémon GO tournaments run as Swiss. The updated Standards of Conduct also prevent tournament staff from simultaneously serving as a required parent, guardian or chaperone, with guardians and chaperones required to be at least 18. Pokémon VGC documentation now focuses entirely on Pokémon Champions and adds rules covering competitor disconnections, while Pokémon GO’s handbook receives mostly organizational and heading updates. Other changes include revised penalty procedures, a Pokémon TCG deck list timing clarification and a reduction of the sanctioning window for League Challenges, Cups and Prereleases from 14 days to seven days.
Source: Pokemon.com
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