Riot Games Unveils 2026 League of Legends Esports Calendar
On Friday, Riot Games revealed new details about the 2026 international esports schedule for League of Legends, accompanied by a new cinematic made with longtime partner Fortiche. The announcement highlights host cities, tournament formats, and anticipated viewing milestones for the upcoming season.
2025 Worlds Play-Ins Viewing Milestone
Riot Games reported that the 2025 Worlds Play-Ins reached a record peak in viewership. The match between T1 and Invictus Gaming became the most-watched Play-Ins game in the event's history. Although exact numbers were not shared, Riot described this as a sign of continued global enthusiasm for the esport.
Stand Tournament in São Paulo
The first major event in 2026 will be the Stand Tournament, scheduled for March 16–22 at the Riot Games Arena in São Paulo, Brazil.
- The tournament will feature two double-elimination groups.
- These groups will lead into single-elimination knockout rounds.
- All matches will be best-of-five games, a format aimed at preserving competitive integrity throughout the bracket.
Mid-Season Invitational Returns to Korea
Next year, the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) will be hosted in Daejeon, South Korea.
- Eleven teams will participate.
- The competition will begin with a Play-In Stage where one team advances to the double-elimination Bracket Stage.
- The format is designed to offer emerging regions a clearer path while ensuring top-seeded teams face strong competition.
Riot Games stated the format "is designed to give emerging regions a clearer path while ensuring top-seeded teams face rigorous competition."
Author's summary: Riot Games outlined its 2026 League of Legends esports events, highlighting new tournament formats, a major event in Brazil, and the MSI's return to South Korea, reflecting growth and global engagement in the esport.