Ranked ladder
Pokémon Champions Champion Tier and Master Ball Unlock
In Season M-2, the official ranked notice says Champion Tier and Rank 1 through Rank 3 of the Master Ball Tier open one week after the start of the season: Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
That unlock matters because the highest ladder bands become part of the active placement race before Season M-2 ends on June 17, 2026 at 01:59 UTC.
What unlocks on May 20?
Champion Tier and Master Ball Rank 1 through Rank 3 open for Season M-2. Once those tiers are available, high-ranked players can compete for final placement before the season closes.
Does this change the season end time?
No. The season deadline remains June 17, 2026. The unlock changes the available ladder tiers, not the Battle Pass reset or reward deadline.