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The League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC) is shaking things up in 2026, introducing a brand-new format that redefines how Europe’s top-tier League will operate. Riot Games has officially confirmed the addition of a new tournament called LEC Versus, replacing the traditional Winter Split, alongside a unified structure for the Spring and Summer Splits.

The changes promise more action, consistent scheduling, and a greater connection between the LEC and EMEA Regional Leagues (ERLs).

A New Year Begins with LEC Versus

Starting in early 2026, the LEC will open its season with LEC Versus, a new invitational-style tournament that brings together all 10 LEC partner teams and two guest squads from the EMEA Regional Leagues.

Replacing the Winter Split, LEC Versus will feature a 12-team Single Round Robin with best-of-one matches. The top eight teams will advance to a double-elimination playoff, with early rounds played as best-of-threes and the later stages as best-of-fives.

At stake is not a spot in the LEC itself, but something even more prestigious — the winner will qualify for the international event First Stand, marking the first major cross-regional showdown of the year.

“Expect fan-favourite formats, high-impact competition, and new storylines filled with energy, passion, and moments that will have you glued to the edge of your seat,” Riot teased in its official announcement.

ERL Teams Step Into the Spotlight

One of the most exciting aspects of LEC Versus is the inclusion of two ERL teams, giving regional squads a rare chance to compete on the biggest stage in EMEA.

The first invitation goes to the 2025 EMEA Masters Summer Champion, while the second is awarded to a team recognised for its consistent, standout performance across the entire 2025 season. For the 2026 edition, Riot has already confirmed that Los Ratones, the back-to-back EMEA Masters champions and dominant force in the NLC, will take one of the two guest slots.

“These aren’t LEC spots, but special invitations earned through competitive excellence within the ERL ecosystem,” Riot explained. “It’s an opportunity for the best regional teams to prove themselves against EMEA’s elite.”

While these invited squads won’t share the same financial benefits as franchised teams, such as revenue sharing from sponsorships and media rights, Riot will provide a participation stipend to help cover expenses like travel, accommodation, and staff support.

To preserve roster integrity, each invited team must retain at least three of their original EMEA Masters players, though the LEC reserves the right to grant exceptions in special cases.

Spring and Summer Get a Unified Format

After experimenting with multiple formats in 2025, the LEC will standardise its Spring and Summer Splits in 2026. Both will now follow an identical competitive layout:

  • Single Round Robin featuring best-of-three series
  • Top six teams advance to best-of-five playoffs

This move ensures consistency for both players and fans, reducing confusion and allowing Riot to plan more LEC Roadtrips, live events hosted in different European cities throughout the year.

Riot confirmed that two teams from Spring will qualify for the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI), while three teams from Summer will advance to the World Championship (Worlds).

“Delivering a consistent format and predictable schedule for both the Spring and Summer Splits will enable more LEC Roadtrips and bring fans more competition,” Riot said.

The Return of LEC Roadtrips

LEC Roadtrips were a major highlight of 2025, with events hosted by organisations like Movistar KOI and Karmine Corp drawing huge crowds and online engagement. Riot has confirmed the initiative will return and expand in 2026, bringing even more cities and fans into the fold.

Further details, including locations and ticket sales, will be announced on LoLEsports.com and the official LEC social media channels later this year.

A Stronger, More Connected EMEA

The 2026 LEC season reflects Riot’s ongoing effort to strengthen ties between its professional and regional leagues while keeping the competition fresh and unpredictable.

By inviting ERL champions to face off against LEC giants like G2 Esports, Fnatic, and Karmine Corp, the new format gives fans a taste of grassroots talent going head-to-head with Europe’s best.

With LEC Versus setting the tone for the year and unified formats across Spring and Summer, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons yet in the history of European League of Legends.