Patryk Stachowiak
The LEC is shaking things up in 2026 with a new tournament structure. LEC Versus, replacing the Winter Split, will feature 12 teams: all 10 LEC partners plus two invitees from the EMEA Regional Leagues. The top eight advance to a double-elimination playoff bracket, with BO3 and BO5 matches determining the winner.
One invite goes to the 2025 EMEA Masters Summer Champion, while the second is awarded for standout performance in 2025. The winner earns an EMEA slot for the First Stand international event.
Standardized Spring and Summer Splits
Both Spring and Summer 2026 will follow the same format: best-of-three matches in the Single Round Robin and best-of-five playoffs for the top six. Only the 10 partnered teams, like G2, Fnatic, and Karmine Corp, will compete.
Qualification paths remain unchanged, with Spring sending two teams to MSI and Summer sending three or more to Worlds. Riot hopes this consistency will enable more LEC Roadtrips and fan engagement.
Financial and Participation Details
Invited ERL teams won’t join the revenue-sharing structure but will receive a participation stipend to cover costs. They must retain at least three of their five original European Masters players, with exceptions at the LEC’s discretion.
With these changes, fans await clearer storylines and deeper competition. Will the revamped schedule deliver, or will concerns about non-franchised participation resurface?