League of Legends esports is set for a wide-ranging update in 2026, with Riot Games outlining changes that affect competitive formats, international tournament incentives and long-term league operations. The publisher said the updates are designed to introduce more strategic depth while aligning schedules and rewards across regions.

Among the most notable changes is a new competitive mechanic called “First Choice,” which will be implemented across all professional leagues beginning next season. Riot also confirmed revised benefits tied to international performance, including a new advantage for regions that win the First Stand Tournament.

Riot announced the updates alongside opening dates for regional leagues and details for major international events such as First Stand, the Mid-Season Invitational and the World Championship. Regional leagues will begin play in mid-January, with Korea’s LCK and China’s LPL opening on Jan. 14, followed by other regions in the days and weeks after.

Introduction of First Choice and Added FST Champion Benefits

The First Choice system replaces traditional side selection priority and gives qualifying teams a strategic decision before each game. Teams awarded First Choice may choose either side selection — blue or red — or draft priority, such as first or last pick. The opposing team receives the remaining option, creating additional layers of decision-making before champions are locked in.

Riot said the system was developed following discussions with teams, regional leagues and gameplay designers, with the goal of increasing draft diversity and competitive balance. The company plans to monitor results throughout the 2026 season and gather feedback to determine whether adjustments are needed.

International competition will also see changes. The First Stand Tournament, scheduled for March 16–22 in São Paulo, Brazil, will feature eight teams competing exclusively in best-of-five series. In addition to the title, the winning region will earn a direct bye into the MSI Play-In Stage, adding tangible stakes to the early-season event.

Further down the calendar, MSI will take place in Daejeon, South Korea, with venue details to be announced. The 2026 World Championship will be hosted in North America, with early rounds in Allen, Texas, and the Finals in New York City.

Riot also confirmed that the third inductee into the Hall of Legends will be revealed ahead of Worlds 2026, following previous honors for Faker and Uzi. Separately, the company said it will modernize its revenue structure by removing regional split prize pools in certain leagues, while continuing to fund international prize pools through its Global Revenue Pool.