NLC introduces a Wildcard system, with Kobbe playing a game for Lundqvist Lightside

The Northern League of Legends Championship (NLC) has introduced a new rule to add more spice to the regular season. Teams are allowed, once per split and only during the regular season, to activate a Wildcard, granting them a random player for the duration of a single BO1.

The opposing team is informed of the change shortly before the match and must adapt accordingly. The first Wildcard was used by Lundqvist Lightside on the opening day of week two against Arctic Pandas. They were allowed to field Kasper “Kobbe” Kobberup for the BO1.

Due to their toplaner Elias “Elijah” Alexandrakis being unable to play, he was replaced by the team’s analyst, Roan “Thunder Yordle” De Wilde. The Swedish team fell despite Kobbe’s contribution, as he ended the game 3/7/7 on Sivir. The 29-year-old Danish AD carry is a two-time Worlds participant, including a quarterfinal run in 2019 that ended with a 3–1 loss to SKT T1.

It is clear that the NLC is not one of the most followed ERL leagues nor one that showcases the highest level of play and the viewership should significantly decline following the departure of Los Ratones. The league has also seen the arrival of several streamer teams in 2026, continuing the trend from last year.

The Wildcard concept can therefore be appealing both for teams and for spectators. Big names from the Northern European scene—or even from outside the region—could make brief appearances for a single BO1, much to the delight of fans, as recently seen with Kobbe.