Next week, all eyes in the League of Legends world will be on Seoul, South Korea, as five regional champions clash in the inaugural First Stand 2025 tournament. 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?
The champions representing the five major regions are:
- CTBC Flying Oyster (LCP)
- Hanwha Life Esports (LCK)
- Karmine Corp (LEC)
- Team Liquid (LTA)
- Top Esports (LPL)
Riot Games has put up a substantial $1 million prize pool, ensuring even the last-place team walks away with a significant $130,000. The champion will receive a 30% share of the total prize money.
What is the Format of First Stand 2025?
First Stand 2025 will kick off with a round-robin stage. Each team will play a best-of-three (Bo3) match against every other team. The team with the lowest overall score will be eliminated. The remaining four teams will then advance to a single-elimination playoff bracket, where matches are best-of-five (Bo5) until a champion is crowned.
All matches will utilize the Fearless Draft system, meaning once a champion is picked in a series, they cannot be selected again. This innovative format has generated discussion among fans and players alike. While the variety it offers is appreciated, it also presents challenges in showcasing players' mastery of their signature champions. However, given that this is the first international tournament of the season, it provides an excellent 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 performance can have a ripple effect, setting the tone for success at later, more prestigious events like Worlds.
The winner earns their region's second seed, automatically securing a group stage spot at the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI). Furthermore, the top two performing regions at MSI will gain an additional slot for Worlds. This makes First Stand 2025 crucial not just for individual team glory but also for the overall strength and representation of each region on the global stage. Teams are competing for their own success, the prize money, and their region's future.
What is the First Stand 2025 Schedule?
Each day, except the final, will feature two matches (all times are 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 will offer multiple viewing options, including official streams and a wide array of co-streams. Head to lolesports.com to find the best viewing experience for you.
