LEC 2026: Complete Schedule, Format, Teams, and Ticket Information

LEC Versus 2026 kicks off the competitive League of Legends EMEA season, uniting LEC and ERL teams in an exhilarating tournament to set the stage for the year ahead.

This event is a high-octane prelude to the First Stand, featuring jam-packed match days, exciting cross-tier clashes, and a format that emphasizes adaptability right from the start. With international qualification at stake, LEC Versus 2026 gives fans an early glimpse of the revamped rosters from Europe’s top teams, alongside the invited ERL squads. HyperX has also come on board as the official peripherals partner for the tournament.

Starting on January 17, 2026, LEC Versus 2026 will unfold in a single round robin stage of best-of-ones, where each team will face off against every other team once, setting the competitive tone. This format includes two ERL teams competing against every LEC roster, providing fans with a comprehensive showcase of matchups in a condensed timeframe before the First Stand. The best-of-ones format ensures a diverse array of games while maintaining a brisk pace from day one.

Each game day during this initial phase will feature six matches, marking the highest daily match count ever in the LEC. The schedule is crafted to be fast-paced and action-packed, placing immediate pressure on teams, particularly those introducing new rosters. Quick adaptation will be crucial, and the format allows for potential surprises and upsets.

After four thrilling weeks, the top eight teams will move on to the playoffs, which will utilize a double-elimination bracket, heightening the stakes. The first two rounds will be best-of-threes, while the remaining matches will transition to best-of-fives. With only one EMEA spot available at First Stand 2026, teams must bring their A-game to claim their place on the international stage.

In addition to the regular ten LEC teams, new ERL teams will also participate, adding excitement and providing tier-2 teams a chance to compete against Europe’s elite.

Fans can experience LEC Versus 2026 live at the Riot Games Arena, with every match day, including best-of-ones and playoffs, starting at 5 PM CET.

Tickets for Weeks 1 to 4 of the single round robin stage will go on sale on December 17 at 6 PM CET, priced at €15 each and available through the official ticketing link. Playoff tickets will be released in stages throughout the first month of the year, beginning with upper bracket round one on January 5, followed by another batch on January 12.