Established in 2013, the
League of Legends EMEA Championship, formerly known as the
EU LCS and now more commonly known as the
LEC, represents one of the largest esports competitions on the European continent. Having existed for more than a decade, the competition continues to elevate industry standards worldwide to this day.
Riot Games Arena: Heart of Berlin Esports
Despite taking its roadshows to various cities across Europe, the LEC has a permanent home and sees all of its regular season matches played in the
Riot Games Arena, located in
Adlershof, Berlin, Germany. This venue has been the heart of LEC events
since 2015, becoming a familiar and iconic location for fans and players alike. In 2023, it underwent a
significant refurbishment, enhancing both its facilities and ambiance. Previously known as the
LEC Studio, the newly revamped Riot Games Arena now accommodates
210 spectators.
The LEC Studio, opened in 2019, has changed significantly since. Credit: Riot Games
Roadshows Across Europe
The LEC's commitment to engaging fans across Europe is evident through its numerous roadshows, bringing the excitement of live esports to various locations. Over the years, the competition has visited France, Sweden, Greece, the Netherlands, Spain, and Denmark, and many more. These events have allowed fans from different regions to experience the thrill of live competition and connect with the vibrant LEC community, showcasing the league's international appeal and growing popularity.
To this day, the LEC remains committed to hosting yearly roadshows to help enable fans from across Europe to participate and enjoy the magic of
League of Legends esports. Looking ahead, the
2024 LEC Season Finals are
set to take place at the
Munich Olympic Hall in
Munich, Germany. This prestigious venue, with a capacity of
10,000 fans per day, promises to be a spectacular setting for the culmination of the season.
Humble Beginnings
While the LEC has now grown immensely, the competition wasn't always so large. The league started its journey in Cologne, Germany, operating from 2013 to 2014 in a different studio under ESL's management. These early years laid the foundation for the league's future. In 2015, Riot Games
assumed operations and moved the league to Berlin, where they established their own dedicated studio. This transition marked a pivotal moment in the LEC's evolution, paving the way for its subsequent growth and success.
The original Cologne Studio in 2013. Credit: Riot Games
Header Photo Credit: Riot Games