Next week, all eyes in the League of Legends world will be on Seoul for First Stand 2025. This tournament pits five regional champions against each other in a thrilling competition. Let's dive into the key details.
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 five major regions are:
- CTBC Flying Oyster (LCP)
- Hanwha Life Esports (LCK)
- Karmine Corp (LEC)
- Team Liquid (LTA)
- Top Esports (LPL)
With a $1 million prize pool, the competition is fierce. The champion receives 30%, while even the last-place team takes home $130,000.
What is the Format of First Stand 2025?
First Stand 2025 begins with a round-robin stage. Each team plays a best-of-three (Bo3) match against every other team. The team with the lowest win count is eliminated. The remaining four teams then advance to a single-elimination playoff, with matches played to a best-of-five (Bo5).
All matches utilize the Fearless Draft system, prohibiting the use of a champion once it's selected within a series. While this format offers exciting champion variety, it also presents challenges for players accustomed to their signature champions. However, as the first international tournament of the season, it provides a valuable opportunity for experimentation and strategic development.
Why is First Stand 2025 Important?
While seemingly a pre-season warm-up, First Stand 2025 has significant implications. A strong showing can significantly impact a team's trajectory towards Worlds. The winner earns their region's second seed, securing an automatic group stage slot at MSI. Furthermore, the two top-performing regions at MSI gain an additional slot for Worlds, highlighting the event's crucial role in determining regional representation at the world championship. Teams are competing not just for the prize money, but for their region's future success.
What is the First Stand 2025 Schedule?
(All times in CET) Each day, except the final, features 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 various viewing options, including their official stream and numerous co-streams. Visit lolesports.com to find the best viewing experience for you.
