Ahead of the start of the 2026 competitive season, League of Legends Champions Korea teams gathered in Seoul to set the tone for the year. At the annual LCK Cup Media Day, players and coaches across the league reached a rare consensus when asked to name the teams most likely to lift the first trophy of the season.

The event was held Tuesday at the LCK Arena in Jongno-gu, Seoul, with representatives from all 10 teams in attendance. Organized by Riot Games, the Media Day offered a preview of expectations, storylines and strategic talking points ahead of the 2026 LCK Cup, which begins Jan. 14.

When players were polled on the strongest title contenders, responses centered on two familiar names: Gen.G and T1. Each team received five votes, tying for the top spot among all player responses.

Gen.G earned support largely due to roster continuity, having retained its championship-winning lineup from last season. T1, meanwhile, drew attention for its pursuit of a historic achievement, entering the year with the goal of securing a third consecutive world championship and extending its legacy as one of the most decorated organizations in League of Legends history.

2026 LCK Cup Media Day Results

The 2026 LCK Cup, first introduced in 2025, once again features a group-versus-group format. Teams are divided into the Baron Group and the Elder Group, facing opponents from the opposite group over a three-week span. Results determine advancement into the play-in stage and playoffs, with the two finalists earning qualification for the First Stand Tournament in São Paulo, Brazil.

A new competitive wrinkle this year is “Super Week,” during which same-seed teams from opposing groups face off for double points. Coaches consistently emphasized its importance, noting that results in the final week of group play could significantly alter playoff positioning.

Media Day discussion also touched on gameplay changes arriving with the 2026 LCK Cup. Matches will be played on an updated Summoner’s Rift, featuring lane-specific quests tied to each role. Players largely agreed that the most impactful rewards belong to top and bottom laners, citing bonuses such as enhanced Teleport effects and an additional item slot for marksmen.

The tournament opens Wednesday at 5 p.m. local time with KT Rolster facing DN Supers, marking the first step in what teams expect to be a tightly contested race between established favorites and challengers alike.