LoL First Stand 2025: Why It Matters

All eyes in the League of Legends community will be on Seoul next week as the five winners of the Winter competition clash at First Stand 2025. This article covers the essential details for the upcoming event.

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Which teams are competing in First Stand 2025? What is the tournament format? Why is this event significant? What is the schedule? Where can you watch the matches? 0 0 Comment on this

Which teams are competing in First Stand 2025?

The tournament features the champions from the five major regions:

CTBC Flying Oyster (PCS)Hanwha Life Esports (LCK)Karmine Corp (LEC)Team Liquid (LCS)Top Esports (LPL)

Riot Games has allocated a $1 million prize pool, distributed relatively evenly. The champion will claim 30% of the total, while even the last-place team receives $130,000.

What is the tournament format?

The event begins with a round-robin stage, where every team faces each other in a best-of-three match. The team with the worst record is eliminated, and the top four advance to a single-elimination playoff bracket, where matches are best-of-five.

All games will use the Fearless Draft system: once a champion is selected in a series, it is banned for the remainder. This format has generated discussion. While fans appreciate the strategic variety, it can prevent players from using their signature champions. As the first international tournament of the season, it serves as an ideal testing ground for this experimental format.

Why is this event significant?

Although it may appear to be a preseason warm-up, First Stand 2025's impact could be substantial. A strong performance here can build crucial momentum for the World Championship later in the year.

The winning team secures their region's second seed an automatic group stage spot at the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI). Furthermore, the top two performing regions at MSI will earn an additional slot for the World Championship, making this event vital for regional standing. Teams are competing not just for prize money and pride, but for the future success of their entire region.

What is the schedule?

Each day, except for the final, will host two matches (all times are in CET).

March 10

9:00 — TL vs. KC12:00 — HLE vs. TES

March 11

9:00 — CFO vs. KC12:00 — TL vs. TES

March 12

9:00 — CFO vs. HLE12:00 — KC vs. TES

March 13

9:00 — TL vs. CFO12:00 — HLE vs. KC

March 14

9:00 — CFO vs. TES12:00 — HLE vs. TL

March 15

9:00 — Semifinal 112:00 — Semifinal 2

March 16

9:00 — Grand Final

Where can you watch the matches?

As always, Riot Games offers multiple viewing options, including numerous co-streamers. Visit lolesports.com to find the best viewing experience for you.