UPDATE: Riot Games has just announced the highly anticipated schedule for the 2026 EMEA Regional Leagues (ERLs), marking a significant shift in competitive gaming by eliminating the controversial mandatory locally trained representative (LTR) rules. This urgent update comes amid rising speculation surrounding the exit of popular team Los Ratones from the NLC and ERLs, raising questions about the future of regional competitions.
Effective immediately, tournament organizers (TOs) will now have complete roster flexibility, allowing them to tailor their teams based on regional needs without the constraints of enforced local player quotas. This change is designed to enhance fan engagement and attract sponsorships across diverse markets in Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
Key Changes: The removal of LTR mandates means TOs can now freely determine roster limits. Previously, teams were required to include at least two locally trained players—a rule that saw notable players like Baus and Rekkles supporting Los Ratones in the NLC. Now, with these restrictions lifted, teams can build more competitive rosters, leading to speculation about a surge in imported talent, especially in regions like France where the LFL is considering a total removal of LTR requirements.
Riot Games emphasized the importance of fostering regional talent while also allowing TOs the freedom to create the best possible product for their audiences. “Fostering regional talent is what enables our TOs to engage with local fans and connect with meaningful sponsorships,” stated a company representative.
In a significant operational shift, the Spanish ERL will now be managed by Last Lap in partnership with Cabal Esports, taking over from Liga de Videojuegos Profesional (LVP). This new leadership will oversee the competitive landscape for EMEA Masters champions, including renowned teams like Origen, MAD Lions, and Team Heretics.
2026 ERL Schedule: The ERL lineup features 13 competitive circuits that will battle it out throughout the year. Here’s the complete schedule:
– **Winter Season:** January 7 – March 8 (EMEA Masters: March 9–15)
– **Spring Season:** March 23 – June 7 (EMEA Masters: June 8–25)
– **Summer Season:** June 26 – September 17 (EMEA Masters: September 21 – October 19)
The circuits include:
– 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
These developments are set to revolutionize the competitive landscape, enhancing opportunities for players and teams alike while increasing engagement with fans. This is a pivotal moment for the future of esports in the EMEA region.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation evolves and the 2026 ERL season approaches. Share your thoughts on these changes and how they might impact your favorite teams!
