LCP 2026 raises the stakes with more Best-of-Fives and the introduction of Swiss Stage

After an explosive debut year, the LCP are aiming for something higher in 2026.

It was an explosive debut year for the League of Legends Championship Pacific (LCP). The league’s first season brought together fans from Southeast Asia, Japan, and Oceania in a fresh competitive era, and it’s gearing up for an even bigger 2026.

The upcoming season will feature more Best-of-Five series, a new Swiss Stage, and systems designed to reward consistent performance. Riot also thanked fans for supporting the league’s first year, saying, “Thank you for joining us on this journey and helping shape the LCP together.”

Eight teams will once again battle for the regional title and a ticket to global events, but this time, every stage of the season will hit harder. Riot Games confirmed that the 2026 season aims to make the LCP “more competitive, entertaining, and easier for fans to follow the stakes and progress throughout the season.”

More best-of-fives, more stories to tell

In 2026, every Playoff match will be a Best-of-5 (BO5). That means no more short runs; only full-length slugfests that test a team’s adaptability and endurance. Riot said the change was made to “raise the stakes of LCP matches and showcase longer series in the Playoffs.” Expect longer nights, bolder drafts, and no shortage of highlight moments.

Split 1 and 2 hold steady

While the Playoffs go bigger, Split 1 and Split 2 will keep their winning structure. Teams will play a Single Round Robin Best-of-3 (BO3) in the regular season before clashing in hybrid elimination BO5 Playoffs. Riot noted this approach “has worked well and gives teams a consistent rhythm in preparation for global events,” keeping the foundation solid while the stakes rise around it.

Swiss Stage brings fresh rivalries

A brand-new Swiss Stage will headline Split 3, shaking up how teams face off. Each round will feature new matchups, BO3s in early rounds and BO5s for crucial qualification or elimination matches. Riot hopes this format will spark “more dynamic matchups and rivalries,” creating unpredictable pairings and high-stakes finales as Worlds qualification draws near.

Championship Points debut in 2026

Consistency will matter more than ever with the arrival of Championship Points in the region. The new system will determine which team grabs the final spot at Worlds 2026, rewarding squads that stay sharp across all three splits. Riot explained that this ensures “teams are rewarded for consistent performances throughout the season.”

2v2 Side Selection Showdown makes its debut

The familiar 1v1 is out, and a 2v2 Side Selection Showdown is in. Riot described it as “faster-paced and non-stop action,” with duos from each team battling to decide who secures side selection. It’s a fresh twist built for speed, aggression, and fan-favourite skirmishes.

LCP Promotion Series returns

The LCP Promotion Series is back for 2026, giving hungry contenders from APAC’s domestic leagues a shot at breaking into the top flight. Two LCP Guest teams will defend their spots in a do-or-die series against regional challengers. Riot confirmed that “more details will be shared” in the lead-up to the new season.

Earlier start times in Split 1

To help fans catch more of the action live, Split 1 will feature earlier start times, beginning at 2:00 PM GMT+8 on match days. Riot said they will track fan feedback and make adjustments if needed.

More details about LCP 2026 will be revealed closer to launch. Fans can keep up with the latest announcements on the league’s official social channels: