LoL First Stand 2025: Importance Explained

Next week, League of Legends enthusiasts will have their eyes glued to Seoul, where the champions of the Winter competition will clash in the First Stand 2025. This article dives into all the essential details of the event, from the participating teams to the viewing options.

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?

The lineup for First Stand 2025 features the champions from the five major regions:

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

Riot Games has set a $1 million prize pool, with a balanced distribution: the winner will claim 30% of the total, while even the team finishing last will receive $130,000.

What is the format of First Stand 2025?

The tournament kicks off with a round-robin stage, where each team faces off in a Best of 3 (Bo3) match against every other team. The team with the poorest record will be eliminated, and the remaining four will advance to a single-elimination playoff, where matches are first to 3 wins.

All games will utilize the Fearless Draft system, which prohibits the reuse of any champion once picked in a series. This format has stirred debate among fans and players alike. While it promotes variety, it can hinder players from showcasing their skills with their favorite champions. However, as the first international tournament of the season, it's an ideal time for experimentation.

Why is First Stand 2025 important?

Although it may seem like a casual warm-up, First Stand 2025 has significant implications. It can be likened to the butterfly effect; a strong showing here could pave the way for success at the World Championships.

The winner secures a group stage slot for their region’s second seed at the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI). Moreover, the two top-performing regions at MSI will earn an additional slot for Worlds, making this event crucial for determining regional strength. Teams are not only competing for their own glory and Riot’s prize money but also for the future of their entire region.

What is the First Stand 2025 schedule?

Each day, except for the final, will feature two matches (all times in 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

Where to watch First Stand 2025?

Riot Games ensures fans have numerous ways to catch the action, including a variety of co-streamers. Head over to lolesports.com to select the most suitable and comfortable viewing option for you.