How to Change Your Team in Pokémon GO 2025

In Pokémon GO, players can join one of three teams: Instinct (Yellow), Mystic (Blue), or Valor (Red). Your team choice determines your mentor and influences your gameplay experience. But what if you regret your initial decision or want to team up with friends for raids and gym battles?

If you've ever asked, "Can I change teams in Pokémon GO?", you're not alone. Many trainers want to switch teams for various reasons. In this guide, we’ll answer your questions and explain how to change teams in Pokémon GO. Let’s dive in!

Can You Switch Teams in Pokémon GO?

Yes, you can change teams in Pokémon GO - but there's a catch. You can only switch teams once every 365 days, so you can't change your mind constantly.

Once you pick a new team, you'll be stuck with that choice for a full year. During this time, you'll hear from your new team’s leader and manage Gyms on their behalf. So, be sure to think it through carefully before making the change!

Which Team in Pokémon GO is the Best?

In Pokémon GO, all three teams - Instinct (Yellow), Mystic (Blue), and Valor (Red) - are pretty much the same in terms of gameplay. There’s no real advantage to any one team, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for color or emblem.

Statistically, about 43% of players choose Mystic (Blue), 32% go with Valor (Red), and 25% opt for Instinct (Yellow). If you pick the Yellow team, you might find it easier to take over Gyms since there are fewer players in that group. On the other hand, Red and Blue teams might take a bit longer to find a Gym but are often stronger in raids.

Keep in mind that these stats are global, and the situation may vary depending on your location. It’s a good idea to check out the team distribution in your area before making your decision.

How to Change Teams in Pokémon GO?

Method 1. Buy A Team Medallion from In-game Shop

If you're looking to switch teams in Pokémon GO, you can do so by purchasing a Team Medallion from the in-game shop. This item allows you to change your team, but you can only buy it once every 365 days.

The cost is 1000 PokéCoins, which can be obtained either by purchasing them with real money or by earning them slowly through in-game activities like leaving defender Pokémon in Gyms.

Here’s how to change teams using the Team Medallion:

Step 1: Make sure you have at least 1000 PokéCoins. You can purchase 1200 PokéCoins for $9.99 or earn them by placing Pokémon in Gyms.

Step 2: Open the Pokémon GO shop and go to the Upgrades section. Find Team Change and exchange 1000 PokéCoins for a Team Medallion.

Step 3: Once purchased, go to your items menu to locate the Team Medallion. Use it to choose your new team, and confirm your selection.

Important Note: After switching teams, keep in mind that if you have Pokémon in Gyms, you will stop earning PokéCoins from their defense. Berry feeding will also be disabled. If you visit that Gym or if your Pokémon is defeated, it will return to your storage.

Method 2. Submit Your Request to Niantic Manually

Another way to change your team in Pokémon GO is to submit a request through Niantic’s Help Center. This option is typically for players who accidentally selected the wrong team initially, or for lower-level players who want to make a change. If this sounds like your situation, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Niantic website and go to the Help Center.
2. Fill out the application form with your details. In the description box, you can write something like, "I accidentally selected the wrong team and would like to switch to ____."
3. Wait for Niantic’s response. If you don't hear back after a few days, feel free to follow up with another request.

Bonus: Spoof Location to Enhance Gameplay Despite Your Team

If you're looking to enhance your Pokémon GO experience without switching teams, using a GPS spoofing tool like FoneGeek Location Changer can be a game-changer. This tool allows you to teleport, auto-walk, and access Gyms from anywhere, enabling you to collect rare Pokémon, level up quickly, and dominate gyms - all without changing your team.

Key Features of FoneGeek Location Changer:

• Multiple spoofing modes: Teleport to any location to collect rare candies and catch elusive Pokémon with ease.
• GPS joystick: Customize your movement speed and direction, planning your routes for a seamless Pokémon journey.
• Location search: Find the best coordinates for high-CP Pokémon or raid battles - ideal for dominating raids.
• Wide compatibility: Works with both iOS and Android devices, is 100% safe to use, and ensures no risk of a soft ban.

Follow the steps to use FoneGeek Location Changer:

Step 1: Download and install FoneGeek Location Changer on your computer, then click Get Started.

Step 2: Connect your device to your computer via USB, unlock your phone, and trust the connection.

Step 3: Once connected, your current map will load. Choose either Teleport Mode or Multi-spot Mode to select a destination and fake your location.

FAQs About Changing Teams in Pokémon GO

How to Join a Team in Pokemon GO?

Once you reach Level 5 in Pokémon GO and visit a Gym, the game will trigger the storyline, allowing you to choose a team to join. To do this, simply tap on a Gym, even if you're not close to a battle. This will open the option for you to pick your desired team.

How much does it cost to change team in Pokémon GO?

To change your team in Pokémon GO, you need to purchase a Team Medallion from the in-game shop. It costs 1000 PokéCoins, which can either be bought for $9.99 (1200 PokéCoins) or earned by placing Pokémon in Gyms to defend.

Will I lose my Pokémon or items after switching teams?

No, you won’t lose your Pokémon or items when you switch teams. However, if your Pokémon are in Gyms, you won’t earn PokéCoins for their defense, and feeding them berries will be disabled. They’ll return to your storage if they get defeated or if you visit the Gym.

Can I switch back to my original team later?

Yes, but you can't switch back immediately. After changing teams, you'll need to wait 365 days before you can switch again and purchase another Team Medallion.

Can you battle your own team in Pokemon GO?

No, you cannot battle your own team in Pokémon GO Gyms. For example, if you are a member of Team Valor, you can only battle members of Team Instinct or Team Mystic in Gyms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you can change your Pokémon GO team once per year, so it's important to carefully consider your choice before committing. It's also helpful to research which teams are popular in your area. Additionally, for a better gaming experience, consider using a location changer like FoneGeek Location Changer. This tool allows you to easily defeat rivals, collect rare Pokémon, and it’s completely safe to use. Give it a try for free and enhance your gameplay!