TL;DR
- EU LCS officially rebrands to LEC with complete franchise system overhaul
- Ten permanent franchises announced including Fnatic, G2, and new entry Rogue
- League debut scheduled for January 18, 2019 with new structure
- Late roster changes saw Splyce and exceL replace Movistar Riders and North
- New system provides financial stability and long-term growth for organizations
European League of Legends enters a new era as the EU LCS undergoes comprehensive rebranding to become the League of Legends European Championship (LEC). This strategic shift represents Riot Games’ commitment to establishing a more sustainable and competitive ecosystem for one of the world’s most popular esports regions.
Earlier this year, Riot Games unveiled plans to transition the European competitive scene to a franchise model mirroring the successful NA LCS structure. The development team initiated an extensive application process inviting organizations to secure permanent membership positions within the revamped league framework.
The transformation extends beyond nomenclature, featuring a completely redesigned visual identity with a distinctive new logo that symbolizes the league’s forward-looking direction and professional evolution.
Following extensive evaluation, the ten inaugural LEC franchises have been officially confirmed. The lineup includes established European powerhouses and exciting new entrants that will shape the competitive landscape.
Returning giants feature World Championship finalist Fnatic, football-backed FC Schalke 04, perennial contenders G2 Esports, Misfits Gaming, Splyce, and Team Vitality. These organizations bring proven track records and dedicated fan bases to the new league structure.
Origen makes its anticipated return to top-tier European competition under RFRSH Entertainment ownership. The organization strategically acquired the Origen brand identity to maintain separation between its League of Legends and Counter-Strike competitive divisions.
Historic organization SK Gaming rejoins the League of Legends scene after a multi-year absence, backed by renewed investment and ambitious plans for European and international success.
Newcomer Rogue enters the arena with celebrity backing from renowned DJ Steve Aoki, marking the organization’s debut in professional League of Legends competition.
British esports entity exceL completes the franchise roster, representing the UK’s growing presence in the European esports ecosystem.
The final franchise lineup underwent significant adjustments during the selection process. Splyce and exceL secured their positions as late additions to the league after unexpected developments.
Originally, these two franchise slots were allocated to Movistar Riders and North. However, negotiations between Riot Games and these organizations reached an impasse, resulting in mutual agreement to withdraw their applications from consideration.
This selection volatility highlights the rigorous standards and complex financial requirements involved in the franchising process. Organizations needed to demonstrate sustainable business models, strong management teams, and long-term commitment to developing European League of Legends.
The application evaluation process considered multiple criteria including financial stability, organizational infrastructure, brand strength, and contribution to the broader esports ecosystem.
The LEC’s inaugural season under the new franchise system commences on January 18, 2019, marking a pivotal moment in European esports history.
This structural overhaul provides participating organizations with unprecedented financial security through revenue sharing and guaranteed league spots. The stability enables long-term planning, player development, and organizational growth previously challenging in the promotion/relegation model.
For fans, the franchise system ensures consistent rivalries and storylines while maintaining competitive integrity through performance-based incentives and tournament qualification requirements.
The transition mirrors broader industry trends toward sustainable esports ecosystems, similar to developments in our Complete Guide to competitive gaming structures. The model also facilitates deeper fan engagement through stable team identities and consistent competitive narratives.
Action Checklist
- Review all ten franchise organizations and their historical performance in European League of Legends
- Study the new franchise revenue sharing model and its impact on team sustainability
- Compare LEC structure with NA LCS franchise system for strategic insights
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