LCK 2026 Season

Stage 1: Opening Season

• Format: Double round-robin, Best-of-3 ($Bo3$) matches.

• Draft Rule: Fearless Draft is enforced.

• Progression: The top 6 teams secure their spots for the Road to MSI.

Stage 2: Group Split

• Format: The 10 teams are divided into two distinct groups based on their Stage 1 performance.

  • Legend Group: Features the top 5 teams from Stage 1.

  • Rise Group: Features the bottom 5 teams from Stage 1.

• Structure: Double round-robin, Best-of-3 ($Bo3$) matches.

• Carry-over: Team records and standings from Stage 1 are fully retained.

• Draft Rule: Fearless Draft is enforced.

Stage 3: Play-In & Elimination

• Format: Double-elimination bracket, Best-of-5 ($Bo5$) matches.

• Draft Rule: Fearless Draft is enforced.

• Advancement Criteria:

  • Direct to Playoffs Round 2: Top 2 teams from the Legend Group.

  • Direct to Playoffs Round 1: 3rd and 4th place teams from the Legend Group.

  • To the Play-In Stage: The bottom team from the Legend Group joined by the top 3 teams from the Rise Group (4 teams total competing for 2 slots).

  • Eliminated: The bottom 2 teams from the Rise Group.

• Play-In Outcome: The top 2 performing teams from this stage advance to Playoffs Round 1.

Stage 4: Playoffs & Worlds Qualification

• Format: Double-elimination bracket, Best-of-5 ($Bo5$) matches.

• Draft Rule: Fearless Draft is enforced.

• The Ultimate Prize: The top 3 finishing teams directly qualify for the World Championship.