BREAKING NEWS: Riot Games has just announced the **2026 schedule** for the League of Legends EMEA Regional Leagues (ERLs), along with significant structural changes that are set to reshape competitive gaming in Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. This update arrives amid speculation following the exit of the popular organization **Los Ratones** from the NLC and ERLs.
In a bold move, Riot is eliminating the **mandatory locally trained representative (LTR)** rules, granting tournament organizers (TOs) unprecedented roster flexibility. This change allows TOs to establish limits tailored to regional needs while focusing on talent development. The **2026 ERL** lineup will include **13 competitive circuits**, all aligned to enhance fan engagement and sponsorship opportunities.
Riot’s decision to remove the LTR mandate means TOs are no longer required to include at least two local players per roster. Previously, teams like Los Ratones showcased local stars such as **Baus** and **Rekkles** in the NLC. Now, TOs can set their own rules, leading to speculation that squads will lean heavily on international imports, particularly in regions like France.
“Fostering regional talent is what enables our TOs to engage with local fans and connect with meaningful sponsorships,” said a Riot representative. “We want to empower TOs to deliver the best product possible for their audiences.”
In a significant shift, **Liga de Videojuegos Profesional (LVP)** will step aside as **Last Lap** partners with **Cabal Esports** to manage Spain’s ERL, which has produced champions like **Origen**, **MAD Lions**, and **Team Heretics**.
The **2026 ERL schedule** is as follows:
– **Winter:** January 7 – March 8 (EMEA Masters: March 9–15)
– **Spring:** March 23 – June 7 (EMEA Masters: June 8–25)
– **Summer:** June 26 – September 17 (EMEA Masters: September 21 – October 19)
The **13 ERL circuits** battling for supremacy will be:
– **Ligue Française de LoL** (France)
– **Prime League** (Germany, Austria, Switzerland)
– **LoL Italian Tournament** (Italy)
– **Arabian League** (Middle East & Africa)
– **Hellenic Legends League** (Greece & Cyprus)
– **Hitpoint Masters** (Czech Republic & Slovakia)
– **Northern LoL Championship** (UK & Nordics)
– **Rift Legends** (Poland & Baltics)
– **Liga Portuguesa de LoL** (Portugal)
– **Esports Balkan League**
– **Road of Legends** (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg)
– **Turkish Championship League** (Turkey)
– **Spain ERL**
With these changes, Riot Games is poised to redefine the competitive landscape for League of Legends, aiming to boost viewership and participation across diverse markets. Fans can expect an exciting year ahead as the **2026 ERL season** approaches, starting January 7.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops!
