Riot Games has officially announced the launch of League of Legends Game Changers for the EMEA region, marking a major milestone for women’s participation in competitive League of Legends. Named LGC Rising, the tournament will begin in August and conclude with a live Grand Final at Paris Games Week this October.
Following the success of VALORANT’s Game Changers circuit, Riot is now bringing that same energy to League of Legends. LGC Rising is designed to be the foundation of a sustainable competitive path for women across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Riot has stated clearly that this is not a one time event but the beginning of something much bigger.
The decision to launch this initiative comes after years of growing demand from the community. Past grassroots tournaments like the Equal Esports Cup in Germany and Coupe des Étoiles in France laid the groundwork for this expansion. With those foundations now in place, Riot is aiming to provide a structured, inclusive platform for women to shine in one of the most iconic games in esports.
LGC Rising will feature eight teams, with three receiving direct invites, likely from organisations already fielding women’s rosters such as G2, SK Gaming, and Team Vitality. Another three will qualify through the Equal Esports Cup, while the remaining two slots will be filled via an open qualifier in early August.
The tournament format will start with two round robin groups of four teams, playing best of one matches. The top three from each group will then move to a double elimination playoff bracket featuring best of five series. Riot has yet to confirm the specifics around drafting rules, but the structure promises a balanced and competitive showcase for top tier female talent.
Importantly, participation in LGC Rising is limited to players who identify as women. Riot is aiming to create a safe and competitive space that allows women to grow and succeed without facing the same challenges often encountered in coed formats. The move echoes the inclusive philosophy behind the VALORANT Game Changers circuit, which has already become one of the most popular women’s esports tournaments globally.
LEC organisations are said to be fully backing the new League initiative, and more teams may soon enter the scene with all women rosters. Riot has emphasized that their goal is not just representation but long term ecosystem development that brings visibility, recognition, and opportunity to deserving female players.
With its debut set to begin soon, LGC Rising is poised to change the landscape of competitive League in EMEA. It is not only a tournament but also a statement that women belong at the highest levels of play and that the future of esports includes them front and center.
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