Next week, all eyes in the League of Legends world will be on Seoul for First Stand 2025, a showdown between five regional champions vying for glory. This article breaks down everything you need to know about this pivotal event.
Table of Contents
- Who is playing in First Stand 2025?
- What is the format of First Stand 2025?
- Why is First Stand 2025 important?
- What is the First Stand 2025 schedule?
- Where to watch First Stand 2025?
Who is playing in First Stand 2025?
Five champions from the major regions will compete:
- CTBC Flying Oyster (LCP)
- Hanwha Life Esports (LCK)
- Karmine Corp (LEC)
- Team Liquid (LTA)
- Top Esports (LPL)
With a $1 million prize pool, the stakes are high. The winning team takes home 30%, while even the last-place team receives a substantial $130,000.
What is the format of First Stand 2025?
The tournament kicks off with a round-robin stage, where each team plays a best-of-three (Bo3) match against every other team. The team with the lowest win rate is eliminated. The remaining four teams then advance to a single-elimination playoff, with matches played to a best-of-five (Bo5) format.
All matches utilize the Fearless Draft system, preventing the reuse of a champion once it's picked within a series. This innovative format offers exciting champion variety but also presents a unique challenge for players accustomed to their signature champions. As the first international tournament of the season, it provides an excellent opportunity for strategic experimentation.
Why is First Stand 2025 important?
While seemingly a pre-season warm-up, First Stand 2025 carries significant weight. A strong showing can significantly impact a team's trajectory towards Worlds. The winner secures their region's second seed and an automatic group stage slot at MSI. Furthermore, the two top-performing regions at MSI earn an additional slot for Worlds, making this tournament crucial for regional success. Teams are competing not only for individual glory and prize money, but also for their region's future.
What is the First Stand 2025 schedule?
(All times in CET) Each day, except for the final, features two matches.
March 10
- 9:00 — TL vs. KC
- 12:00 — HLE vs. TES
March 11
- 9:00 — CFO vs. KC
- 12:00 — TL vs. TES
March 12
- 9:00 — CFO vs. HLE
- 12:00 — KC vs. TES
March 13
- 9:00 — TL vs. CFO
- 12:00 — HLE vs. KC
March 14
- 9:00 — CFO vs. TES
- 12:00 — HLE vs. TL
March 15
- 9:00 — Semifinal 1
- 12:00 — Semifinal 2
March 16
- 9:00 — Grand Final
Where to watch First Stand 2025?
Riot Games offers various viewing options, including numerous co-streams. Head to lolesports.com to find the best viewing experience for you.
