Throughout the coming week, League of Legends enthusiasts will have their eyes on Seoul as the five reigning champions from the Winter tournament clash at First Stand 2025. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the prestigious event.
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Which teams are competing in First Stand 2025? What tournament format will be used? Why does First Stand 2025 matter? When are the matches scheduled? How can you watch the action? 0 0 Join the discussion
Which teams are competing in First Stand 2025?
The tournament features the champions from five major regions:
CTBC Flying Oyster (LCP) Hanwha Life Esports (LCK) Karmine Corp (LEC) Team Liquid (LTA) Top Esports (LPL)
Riot Games has allocated a $1 million prize pool with balanced distribution - the winning team claims 30%, while even the lowest-ranked competitor secures $130,000.
What tournament format will be used?
The event kicks off with a round-robin group stage where all teams compete in best-of-three matches. The lowest-performing team gets eliminated, while the top four advance to a single-elimination playoff bracket featuring best-of-five matches.
The tournament introduces the Fearless Draft system - any champion selected in a series becomes unavailable for subsequent games. While this format creates diverse champion selections, some argue it limits players' ability to perform on their signature picks. As the season's first international competition, it serves as an ideal testing ground for innovative formats.
Why does First Stand 2025 matter?
Though positioned as a seasonal opener, the tournament carries significant competitive implications. Think of it as a domino effect - strong performances here could lead to advantages at the World Championship.
The First Stand champion secures their region's second seed an automatic group stage berth at MSI. Furthermore, top-performing regions at MSI earn additional Worlds slots, making this tournament crucial for regional strength. Essentially, teams compete not just for personal glory (and Riot's prize money) but for their entire region's competitive future.
When are the matches scheduled?
Each event day (excluding finals) features two matches (all times CET):
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
How can you watch the action?
Riot Games offers comprehensive viewing options, including numerous official co-streams. Visit lolesports.com to find your preferred broadcast experience.
