BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) has today announced the winners of the BFBS Valarian Pro League Grand Final 2026, following the season-ending esports competition at the Royal Air Force Museum London on 27 September.
Eight teams from across the armed forces esports community came together for a day of competitive gaming, with the championship title ultimately decided in front of a live audience, showcasing the camaraderie and skills that defined this year’s tournament.
The winners of the BFBS Valarian Pro League Grand Final were the S.E.A. Dragons, who claimed the championship title after beating favourites the Army Buzzards in a best of seven by a 4-2 score line.
The 2026 BFBS Valarian Pro League champions have parents who have served, and one is also currently a civil servant in Gibraltar. Talking on behalf of his teammates, Ben Lyon said:
“Unbelievable! I’m literally speechless, the amount of hard work we’ve gone through for the semi-finals and finals is immense. I’m proud of both of them!”.
MOD civil servants or immediate family members of those who are serving, and veterans were welcome to compete as part of the armed forces community.
The Grand Final demonstrated BFBS’ continuing relevance to Defence and its central role in supporting the welfare of the armed forces community. By creating shared experiences that connect people across locations, ranks and Services, BFBS helps strengthen belonging, morale and community, important contributors to recruitment and retention across Defence.
The event brought the BFBS Pro League community together alongside military stakeholders, guests and supporters and featured a packed programme of activities and entertainment throughout the day. Elements of the Grand Final experience opened to the public for the first time and the action livestreamed for audiences beyond the venue.
Across the museum, visitors explored interactive experiences including augmented reality SpawnPoint, HADO, esports simulators, drones and gaming experiences with support from RAF Air Cadets, British Army & RAF engagement and Royal Navy STEM. Together, these experiences highlighted the breadth of skills, technology and career pathways within today’s armed forces.
Cadet ambassadors and hundreds of young people from across the Cadet Forces supported the event alongside BFBS and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers. Their involvement enhanced the day while creating meaningful connections with serving personnel from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force.
Cadets were instrumental in helping to deliver a welcoming, inclusive and successful event. At the same time, the Grand Final gave them valuable first-hand insight into Service life, modern military roles and opportunities across Defence that they may not otherwise have encountered.
The RAF Theatre at the museum hosted a live panel discussion on military esports, while live music performances from the British Army Rifles Band and RAF cadet bands added to the atmosphere.
Military personnel, cadets, and guests were also able to enjoy the exclusive BFBS Operation Ice Cream van and a dedicated hospitality area for VIPs and invitees.
Valarian was the Headline Sponsor of the BFBS Valarian Pro League Grand Final 2026, with VP of Strategic Markets and former British Army Major Jonnie Beddall presenting the Championship Trophy to the winning team.
Wifinity also supported the Pro League as an official sponsor, throughout the 2026 season.
Adam Waters, BFBS Director of AI Culture and Gaming, said:
“Bringing the BFBS Valarian Grand Final 2026 to the Royal Air Force Museum has been a fantastic way to mark the culmination of another season of competition. We’ve seen the league continue to grow, both in the quality of the competition and in the enthusiasm of the community around it. The Grand Final brought together players, supporters and partners for a memorable celebration of esports and the armed forces community, and we’re delighted to have had Valarian and Wifinity’s support of our Pro League.”
Robert Wylie, BFBS Head of BFBS Esports, also said:
“The standard of the competition this season has been exceptional, and the Grand Final was a fitting conclusion. The players have put in a huge amount of work and commitment throughout the season and seeing them compete on this stage has been a real highlight. Huge congratulations to all the players involved.”
Jonnie Beddall, VP of Strategic Markets at Valarian and former British Army Major, commented:
“Valarian was delighted to sponsor the BFBS Valarian Pro League Grand Final. The standard of competition clearly demonstrates Esports’ relevance for the Armed Force as a proving ground for skills required on the modern battlefield. Valarian is on a mission to cultivate and attract the best talent as we deepen our partnerships across Defence.”
Kate Cleevely, Wifinity Marketing Director, added:
“The BFBS Valarian Pro League builds lasting communities and essential skills through Esports. Wifinity is delighted to support an initiative that celebrates teamwork and showcases the competitive gaming talent that exists across the armed forces community. Congratulations to all the players who took part throughout the season, and especially to this year’s champions.”
Highlights of the day can be watched here: https://we.tl/t-pjjdB9zcCcQQqffH
