2026 LCK Format Lack of Changes Leaves Fans Perplexed

Originally posted on Total Apex Gaming | Last updated Nov 6, 2025 10:15 AM ET

The LCK adopted a different format for 2025. It received mixed feedback from viewers. While some enjoyed seeing the Rise Group matches, others felt that it was not fair for the likes of KT Rolster and Nongshim Redforce. The latter was mentally affected by the consistent losses they suffered against the four Legend Group teams. The 2026 format will largely remain the same, with some variations.

LCK Cup Changes

The LCK Cup was added in 2025. It places teams into two groups: the Elder and Baron groups. Teams from each group only play against teams from the opposing group. The group with the better record would see all its teams qualify for the postseason. The LCK Cup returns in 2026, but with some changes. The third week will feature a Super Week. Teams with the same seeding in each group will face each other. The winner earns two points.

The postseason qualification is also adjusted. The two teams from the winning group and the first place from the losing group advance to the Playoffs. The last-place team in the losing group is knocked out. The other teams qualify for the Play-Ins.

LCK Regular Season Changes

Rounds 1-2 remain the same for 2026. All teams will play in a double-round robin to qualify for the Road to MSI. The format changes when teams return from MSI. Instead of three rounds of play, there will be two. The change is to accommodate the inclusion of the Asia Games this year. Teams will be split into the Legend and Rise Groups. The qualification for postseason remains the same.

LCK 2026 Format

Image of LTA North League of Legends gameplay, courtesy of Riot Games.

LCK Cup

Teams are split into two groups
Teams only play against the opposing group teams
The third week will feature Super Week
- Same seeds face off to earn double points
All matches Bo3
- Except for Super Week matches, which are Bo5
The top 2 from the Winners and Losers Group advance to the Playoffs
Last Place in Losers is Knocked Out
The rest of the teams advance to Play-Ins
All Play-In and Playoff matches are Bo5
Play-Ins and Playoffs are Double Elimination
All matches feature Fearless Draft
Winner qualifies for First Stand

LCK Round 1-2

Double Round-Robin
All matches are Bo3 with Fearless Draft
Top Six Qualify for Road to MSI

Road to MSI

Format TBA, but likely unchanged
The top two teams qualify for MSI

LCK Round 3-4

Teams are split based on the performance in Round 1-2 performance
- Top five in Legend Group
- Bottom five in Rise Group
Scores from Round 1-2 carry over
All matches are Bo3 with Fearless Draft
The top four teams in the Legend Group qualify for the Playoffs
- First and Second place qualify for Round 2
- Third and Fourth place qualify for Round 1
Fifth place in the Legend Group and the Top three from the Rise Group qualify for Play-Ins
Last-placed teams in the Rise Group are knocked out