LoL First Stand 2025: why this tournament is important

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 regional champions will clash:

• CTBC Flying Oyster (LCP)
• Hanwha Life Esports (LCK)
• Karmine Corp (LEC)
• Team Liquid (LTA)
• Top Esports (LPL)

Riot Games has put up a $1 million prize pool, with a surprisingly generous distribution: the winner 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, featuring best-of-three (Bo3) matches between all teams. The team with the lowest win rate will be eliminated. The remaining four teams will then advance to a single-elimination playoff bracket, with matches going to a best-of-five (Bo5) format.

All matches utilize the Fearless Draft system, where once a champion is selected in a series, it cannot be chosen again. This unique format has generated discussion among fans; while some appreciate the increased champion diversity, others worry it might hinder players from showcasing their mastery of their signature champions. However, as the first international tournament of the season, it provides a valuable opportunity for experimentation and strategic exploration.

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 tournament's winner secures their region's second seed and an automatic group stage berth at MSI. Furthermore, the top two performing regions at MSI earn an additional slot for Worlds, making First Stand 2025 crucial for regional dominance. Teams aren't just competing for prize money; they're fighting for their region's future success.

What is the First Stand 2025 Schedule?

(All times in CET) Each day, except the final, will feature 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 multiple viewing options, including the official stream on lolesports.com and numerous co-streams. Find the platform that best suits your preferences and enjoy the action!