Since the introduction of the three-split season, it has become increasingly common for regional leagues
to experiment with new formats to kick off the competitive year during the winter. Even so, the possible format designed by Webedia for the start of the 2026 season in France stands out as particularly innovative. According to
Sheep Esports sources, the 2026 LFL Winter Split could take the form of a tournament titled the
LFL Invitational.
This event would bring together the
seven top-tier French teams — excluding Gentle Mates and GameWard, who have both withdrawn from
League of Legends, as well as Karmine Corp Blue,
who have qualified for the LEC Versus as champions of the 2025 EMEA Masters Summer. In addition,
eight LFL Division 2 teams, three Game Changers teams, and
two influencer teams would take part, for a total of
twenty teams. Although the qualification process has yet to be finalized, this would mark the first time in ERL history that female teams compete in an ERL1 tournament.
Qualification for the LFL Season
With Esprit Shōnen joining the league, all new LFL partnered teams for 2026 have now been determined. The two remaining spots to complete the 10-team LFL lineup for the rest of the year will be awarded through the LFL Invitational — meaning competitive results will decide who earns a place in the league.
Although the full format of the Invitational is still being finalized, the current plan includes a Group Stage, a Super Group Stage, and playoffs. Several teams have already suggested adjustments to ensure that LFL organizations receive fair competitive conditions, proper visibility, and adequate playtime. Any team, LFL or not, will be able to qualify from the Invitational to the EMEA Masters.
Karmine Corp Blue will not take part in the group stage, and it remains unclear whether they could enter the tournament at a later point. In any case, they are expected to return for the Spring Split.
Header Photo Credit: Elliot Le Corre/Webedia/Riot Games
