The League of Legends competitive scene will be revolutionized in 2025 with new tournaments and formats. Riot Games introduces First Stand, Fearless Draft, and exciting changes to regional leagues for the new LoL esports season.
The League of Legends Esports League for 2025 is full of surprises and transformations. After the success of Worlds 2024, where T1 was crowned world champion, Riot Games announces key new features to revolutionize the competitive ecosystem in the coming year, from the introduction of the new First Stand tournament to a renewed selection system called Fearless Draft. These innovations aim to create a unique and dynamic experience, keeping fans on the edge of their seats and consolidating the game as a leader in esports.
New Tournament: First Stand
In response to fan demand, Riot Games is launching First Stand, a third international event designed to kick off the season and heighten regional rivalry. Taking place from March 10-16, 2025 at the iconic LoL Park in Seoul, the tournament will be the first major showdown of the year between each region’s elite teams, setting the competitive tone for the remainder of the season. First Stand promises both the chance to test out new strategies and the exciting debut of Fearless Draft, the innovative champion selection system.
Fearless Draft, the new Champion Select system, will be rolled out to all regions starting in Split 1. This mode revolutionizes draft strategy: once a champion is chosen, they are locked to both teams for the entire best-of-five series, ensuring constant champion rotation and challenging players to adapt in each match. With ten additional bans per series, teams will need to anticipate their opponents’ tactics and devise innovative strategies, leading to more unpredictable and strategic matches.
MSI returns to Canada
The excitement doesn’t stop there, as the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) 2025 will be held in Canada in June, after a long wait by Canadian fans for an in-person event. Featuring the top ten teams from the five major regions, the MSI promises to offer fans high-level competition and cement the esports scene in Canada, with a production that combines the excitement of the game and the passion of the fans.
Chengdu to host Worlds 2025
Continuing the tradition of providing a spectacular stage for the most anticipated tournament, Riot has confirmed that the 2025 League of Legends World Championship will take place in Chengdu, China. This will be the first time Worlds has come to this city, and the energy of the Chinese fans is expected to make the event an unforgettable experience. Following the success of MSI 2024 in Chengdu, Riot Games is ready to host a global tournament that resonates around the world, further raising the level of competition and excitement of Worlds.
Changes in the Regional Leagues: LCP and LTA
The regional league ecosystem will also receive a significant restructuring. Leagues have been reorganized to optimize the competitiveness and sustainability of each region. With this new structure comes the League of Legends Championship Pacific (LCP) and the League of Legends Championship of the Americas (LTA), each with a renewed focus that will strengthen the rivalry between regions. These leagues will bring new identities and formats, ensuring a schedule full of exciting matchups for fans in every corner of the globe.
A year of innovation and competition
The 2025 League of Legends season is shaping up to be one of the most innovative and exciting in esports history. With a third international tournament, a completely revamped roster strategy, the return of MSI to Canada, and the Worlds Finals in Chengdu, Riot Games is reaffirming its commitment to LoL esports. The year promises epic competitions, new strategies, and unforgettable matchups for League of Legends’ global audience.