2025 is Almost Here: Upcoming Changes to the ERLs!

TL;DR:

• TOs will be offered greater flexibility to create their split formats in 2025

• Co-streaming and broadcasting regulations have been relaxed

• Having a substitute will no longer be mandatory

• TOs will be offered the option of increasing the number of LTRs in their respective leagues

• We’re loosening the rules around players participating in third-party events

• It will no longer be mandatory for ERLs to have a 2nd Division or host in-person events

• LoL Esports EMEA Tier 2 format changes will be revealed soon™

2025 will mark a new chapter for League of Legends Esports in EMEA! Now, we’re ready to share what changes we’re making to the Tier 2 ecosystem moving forward.

As an integral part of LoL Esports in EMEA, our ERLs cultivate emerging talent and offer players a pathway to the highest levels of competition. To better support players, teams and TOs in Tier 2, we’re making some changes that we believe can help create a more sustainable ecosystem, as well as enhance the experience for communities locally.

Offering TOs greater flexibility around their formats

One of the biggest changes we’ll introduce in 2025 is offering TOs greater flexibility to create their competition formats. 

We recognise that local leagues have the best understanding of their local communities’ needs and preferences. So, while we’ll still have a structured split format in 2025 (with more details on that to come soon™), we’ll allow more freedom to TOs to create split formats that are better tailored to serve their specific communities. 

Co-streaming and Broadcasts

Next up, we’re relaxing co-streaming and broadcasting requirements across our ERLs. TOs will now have the option to host either studio or remote setups as part of their Official Broadcasts, without the need to air every match. 

Additionally, TOs will have more flexibility when it comes to providing co-streaming rights to teams – allowing teams to co-stream ALL ERL matches at the TO’s discretion. This includes first-person view streams, giving fans the option to keep up with the action from the eyes of the players themselves! 

By relaxing broadcasting rules and offering a greater diversity of streaming possibilities, we hope these changes can enhance the viewing experience for fans, as well as give TOs more opportunities to tailor their experience to their fans’ needs. 

Substitutes

For 2025, the requirement of having a substitute will be removed, with teams being able to sign an emergency substitution if required during an active competition. All substitutes will need to meet the requirements highlighted in the rulebook, and they must be approved by the ERL’s respective TO. This adjustment will help reduce operational pressure on ERL teams, giving them the flexibility to adapt to their current situation more effectively.

Locally Trained Representatives (LTRs)

In 2025, some ERLs might see an increase in locally trained representatives (LTRs), with TOs being provided with the opportunity to add one more slot per ERL at their discretion. This change aims to enable the promotion of local talent and nurture the growth of regional players in the hope of expanding and improving our talent pool throughout the region.

TO events & Third-Party Events

To promote the sustainability of our ERLs, we've decided to remove the requirement for hosting mandatory live events. This change allows TOs to focus their resources better, without the pressure of hosting in-person events.

Concurrently, we’re loosening the rules for participating in third-party competitions, allowing more competitive opportunities for ERL teams and players throughout EMEA, at the TO's discretion. This change aims to create a more inclusive and free environment for aspiring players, allowing them the ability to showcase and hone their skills more regularly.

Division Two

Moving forward, it will no longer be mandatory for ERLs to have a 2nd Division. However, a promotion-relegation tournament will remain compulsory at least once throughout the competitive season, with the possibility of at least one team being promoted. These changes will help develop an open competitive environment which facilitates local players' growth, while also guaranteeing the opportunity to fight for promotion.

Format Changes

Further details about the Tier 2 format changes coming to LoL Esports in EMEA will be revealed in the coming weeks, so be sure to keep an eye out on lolesports.com for those announcements!