Riot Games Reveals 2026 League of Legends Esports Schedule and New Cinematic
Riot Games announced new details about the 2026 international League of Legends esports calendar, alongside a new cinematic developed with longtime partner Fortiche. The announcement highlights host cities, tournament formats, and expected viewing milestones for the upcoming competitive season.
2025 Worlds Play-Ins Viewership Milestone
The 2025 Worlds Play-Ins reached a record audience, with the T1 versus Invictus Gaming matchup becoming the most-watched Play-Ins match in the event's history. While Riot Games did not disclose exact numbers, it emphasized this milestone as evidence of the continued global enthusiasm for League of Legends esports.
Upcoming Major Events in 2026
Stand Tournament in São Paulo
The first significant event of 2026 is the Stand Tournament, scheduled from March 16 to 22 at the Riot Games Arena in São Paulo, Brazil. The format features two double-elimination groups advancing to single-elimination knockout rounds. Every match will be best-of-five, a format intended to preserve competitive fairness throughout the bracket.
Mid-Season Invitational in Korea
The Mid-Season Invitational will return to Korea next year, hosted in Daejeon. Eleven teams will compete, starting with a Play-In Stage. One team from the Play-In advances to a double-elimination Bracket Stage. Riot designed this format to offer emerging regions a clearer path while ensuring top-seeded teams face tough competition.
Riot Games on the 2026 format: "The structure is designed to give emerging regions a clearer path while ensuring top-seeded teams face rigorous competition."
Author’s summary: Riot Games outlined the 2026 League of Legends esports schedule featuring major tournaments in Brazil and Korea, aiming to balance competitive integrity and global growth.