New LEC Format 2025 Explained
The 2025 season of the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC) introduces a dynamic shift in its competitive framework. By removing the traditional Season Finals and the Championship Points system, the LEC has embraced a new approach that emphasizes three distinct splits. This change aims to create a more engaging competition by offering unique formats and stakes for each split.
These adjustments are designed to align the LEC more closely with the broader League of Legends ecosystem. By enhancing the connection between the sport and the game itself, the new format seeks to elevate regional competitions to new heights. The focus on varied and high-stakes matches is expected to invigorate both players and fans, promising a fresh phase in the league's storied history.
Exploring the Changes in the LEC Format for 2025
Adjustments in the Winter 2025 Format
For Winter 2025, the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC) has introduced a new draft style known as the Fearless Draft. In this system, teams are restricted from choosing champions they have already used in the ongoing series. The regular season will continue with a three-week, single round-robin stage where matches are played as best-of-ones.
Following the regular season, the top eight teams proceed to a double-elimination playoff stage. This stage includes both best-of-three and best-of-five series. The team that emerges victorious in the Winter Split finals is declared the first LEC Champion for the year and will represent the region in a newly introduced international event.
Spring 2025 Format Innovations
In Spring 2025, there is an expansion to a seven-week regular season, where each team will engage in a minimum of nine best-of-three series. From here, only the top six teams will make it to the playoffs which utilize a double-elimination bracket. Unlike Winter, the Spring playoffs will not use the Fearless Draft system, opting instead for best-of-five matches. The champion of the Spring Split will gain a coveted spot at the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI), an esteemed global event.
Summer 2025 Format Developments
The Summer 2025 season introduces changes with a new group stage. The teams are divided into two groups and face each rival within their group in best-of-three series. The leading two teams from each group automatically qualify for the playoffs. Teams placed third and fourth will face off to secure the remaining playoff spots.
Playoffs will be conducted in a double-elimination format, with best-of-five series. The triumphant team in the Summer Split will be the last champion of the LEC for the year, representing EMEA at the Worlds 2025. Additionally, there will be a LEC roadshow at the end of the Summer Split, with details about the location and venue to be announced early in the year.
To ensure matches incorporate current gameplay dynamics, the LEC plans to hold matches on the active patch. However, matches that are close to new patch releases, especially playoff games, will be played on the previous patch to maintain competitive integrity. The first split for the 2025 season is slated to begin on January 18, 2025. For further information on match schedules and format modifications, visiting the official LoL Esports website would be beneficial.
