To be honest, I wouldn't know for sure at this point! They've changed so much in the tech tree recently, that the tech tree for newer players may look completely different from the tech tree that I'm seeing. The
Wiki on tournaments also doesn't clarify it. Back in the day, there was no tech to unlock, tournaments just became available after completing chapter 3, if I recall correctly. But, what I see in my tech tree now is that there is actually a tech to unlock tournaments halfway through chapter 4. I assume this is the same for everyone, including new players, but don't quote me on that
However, judging by
this announement and the fact that I'm seeing a 'neighbourhood' tech in the tree for chapter 1, that should mean I've been transferred to the new setup already. So then my assumption should be correct and
new players will be able to play tournaments after unlocking the tournaments tech halfway through chapter 4.