The 2025 League of legends World Championship (Worlds 2025) will serve as the grand finale of the competitive season, bringing together the best teams from across the globe. Set to take place in China, this year’s tournament promises a new format, a revamped qualification system, and intense international competition.
While many details are still to be finalized, here’s everything we know so far about Worlds 2025.
Tournament Format and Structure
Worlds 2025 will feature 17 teams from the top League of Legends regions, with a multi-stage format that ensures high-stakes competition at every level.
Stage 1: Play-In
- Two teams will compete in a best-of-five match.
- The winner advances to Stage 2.
Stage 2: Swiss Stage
- 16 teams participate (15 directly qualified + 1 Play-In winner).
- A Swiss-style format with five rounds.
- Rematches are not allowed within the Swiss Stage.
- Matchups will be drawn at the end of each round.
- Teams with three wins advance, while teams with three losses are eliminated.
- Best-of-one matches are used, except for Qualification and Elimination matches, which are best-of-three.
Stage 3: Knockout Stage
- Eight teams from Stage 2 advance.
- A single-elimination bracket.
- All matches are best-of-five.
Worlds 2025: Prize Pool
The prize distribution has yet to be confirmed, but we can expect a substantial reward pool, with significant earnings for top-performing teams.
| Placement | Team |
|---|---|
| 1st Place | TBD |
| 2nd Place | TBD |
| 3rd-4th Place | TBD |
| 5th-8th Place | TBD |
| 9th-11th Place | TBD |
| 12th-14th Place | TBD |
| 15th-16th Place | TBD |
| 17th Place | TBD |
More details on the exact prize money distribution will be announced Closer to the event.
Qualified Teams and Regional Slots
Worlds 2025 will feature direct invitations from major competitive regions, along with one additional spot for the MSI Champion and a potential extra seed for the second-best region at MSI 2025.
Regional Team Distribution
| Region | Number of Teams | Qualification Path |
|---|---|---|
| Korea (LCK) | 3 | LCK 2025 Season Playoffs |
| China (LPL) | 3 | LPL 2025 Grand Finals & TBD placements |
| Americas (LTA) | 3 | LTA 2025 Regional Championship & Split 3 best-ranked teams |
| EMEA (LEC) | 3 | LEC 2025 Summer Playoffs |
| Asia-Pacific (LCP) | 3 | LCP 2025 Season Finals Playoffs |
| Mid-Season Invitational | 1-2 | MSI 2025 Champion & possible second-best region at MSI |
Key Changes for 2025
- Americas and APAC leagues have been unified into two major panregional leagues, each sending three teams to Worlds.
- The MSI Champion automatically qualifies but must reach the playoffs in their domestic league to claim the spot.
- The MSI runner-up’s region could receive an extra seed, rewarding strong international performances.
Expected Schedule and Key Dates
While the official start date for Worlds 2025 has not yet been revealed, based on previous years, we can expect:
- Play-In Stage: September 2025
- Swiss Stage: Late September – Early October 2025
- Knockout Stage: Mid-October 2025
- Grand Finals: Late October – Early November 2025
Official match schedules, VOD links, and in-depth details will be provided as the event approaches.
Anticipated Storylines for Worlds 2025
While it’s still early, some major narratives are already forming:
- Will the LCK or LPL dominate again? – Korea and China remain the strongest regions, but with the new format, other regions have a chance to rise.
- MSI 2025’s impact on Worlds qualification – The new MSI Champion qualification rule could drastically shift the competition.
- Americas and APAC restructure – With the new regional format, will the Americas and APAC leagues bring a stronger showing at Worlds?
- The first-ever unified Swiss Stage – How will teams adapt to this format with no rematches and varied matchups every round?
What’s Next for Worlds 2025?
As we get closer to the biggest tournament of the year, more details will be released about:
- Team qualifications and seeds
- The exact prize pool distribution
- Finalized tournament schedule and venue locations
Until then, keep an eye on official Riot announcements and competitive League of Legends updates as we head into one of the most exciting Worlds tournaments yet.
For more League of Legends esports updates, team rankings, and Worlds 2025 news, stay tuned to LoLNOW.gg!
Frequently Asked Questions about Worlds 2025
Where will Worlds 2025 be held?
Worlds 2025 will take place in China.
How many teams will participate in Worlds 2025?
A total of 17 teams will compete in Worlds 2025, with slots allocated to major regions such as Korea, China, EMEA, Americas, and Asia-Pacific.
What is the format of Worlds 2025?
The tournament features three stages: Play-Ins (best-of-five), a Swiss Stage (five rounds, best-of-one with elimination matches as best-of-three), and a Knockout Stage (single elimination, best-of-five).
What are the key changes for Worlds 2025?
The Americas and APAC regions have been unified into two panregional leagues, and the MSI 2025 Champion will automatically qualify for Worlds if they reach their domestic playoffs.
When will Worlds 2025 take place?
While the exact dates are yet to be announced, Worlds 2025 is expected to start in September and conclude in early November.
How can I watch Worlds 2025?
Worlds 2025 will be streamed live on platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and the official Riot Games website.
What is the prize pool for Worlds 2025?
The official prize pool distribution has not been revealed yet, but significant earnings are expected for top-performing teams.
Will the MSI 2025 winner automatically qualify?
Yes, the MSI 2025 Champion will qualify for Worlds, but only if they reach the playoffs in their domestic league.
