LEC 2026 Format Update: Riot Introduces LEC Versus and Structural Changes

Riot Games has officially revealed the LEC 2026 format update, introducing a major structural overhaul to the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC). As teams navigate the offseason transfer window, Riot confirmed that the 2026 season will feature a brand-new tournament called LEC Versus, alongside refinements to the Spring and Summer Splits.

The changes aim to deepen integration across the EMEA ecosystem, create meaningful opportunities for second-tier teams, and deliver a more dynamic competitive calendar.

LEC 2026 Format Update: What Is LEC Versus?

The most significant change in the LEC 2026 format update is the removal of the Winter Split, which has been replaced by LEC Versus 2026. This new tournament will open the season and act as EMEA’s qualification pathway to First Stand 2026, an international event featuring top teams from each region.

LEC Versus 2026 Key Details

• Features all 10 partnered LEC teams

• Includes 2 invited ERL teams

• Winner qualifies for First Stand 2026
  

The two ERL representatives will be:

• EMEA Masters 2025 Summer Champion

• One invited team, selected based on seasonal performance

For the inaugural edition, Los Ratones and Karmine Corp Blue have been confirmed as the invited ERL teams.

These invitations are one-off entries—both ERL teams will return to their respective leagues once the tournament concludes.

Spring and Summer Splits Remain Unchanged

While the Winter Split has been replaced, the Spring and Summer Splits will continue using the established LEC format.

Spring & Summer Split Structure

• 10 teams

• Single round-robin

• Best-of-three matches

• Best-of-five playoffs

These splits will determine EMEA’s representatives at:

• Mid-Season Invitational 2026

• League of Legends World Championship 2026

Riot expects the consistent format and clearer scheduling to improve competitive integrity and viewer engagement throughout the year.

LEC Roadtrips Confirmed for 2026

Following strong community reception, LEC Roadtrips will return in 2026. Organized by Movistar KOI and Karmine Corp, these events move select matches outside the Riot Arena in Berlin, Germany, bringing live LEC action directly to fans across Europe.

Riot has not yet confirmed whether the 2025 host cities will be reused, with further details expected closer to the season.

When Does the LEC 2026 Season Start?

The LEC 2026 season begins on January 17, with the opening matches of LEC Versus 2026. The tournament will serve as the first look at newly rebuilt rosters as teams attempt to challenge G2 Esports’ regional dominance.

All matches will be broadcast live on the LEC’s official YouTube and Twitch channels.

What the LEC 2026 Changes Mean for EMEA

The LEC 2026 format update reflects Riot’s long-term vision for EMEA esports—bridging the gap between tier-one and ERL competition, increasing competitive stakes early in the season, and providing a clearer international pathway.

With LEC Versus creating unprecedented crossover opportunities and Spring/Summer maintaining stability, the 2026 season shapes up to be one of the most ambitious in league history.