With the hopes of enhancing sustainability and improving the LoL ecosystem, Riot has announced several changes to the ERL in 2025.
Image Credit: Riot Games
2025 marks a new chapter for the LoL ERL ecosystem
LoL esports will never be the same as before. From the merger of the Americas to the creation of the new LCP, to the introduction of a third international tournament, 2025 will shake up a lot of things in the League community. And the EMEA Regional system is no different.
Heading into the new season, a series of changes will be implemented for the tier-two ecosystem, starting from the competitive format.
According to Riot, the new system will give tournament organizers (TOs) more flexibility to create formats that are better tailored to serve their specific communities. Additionally, they will be given the option to either host the matches in the studio or with remote setups.
On top of that, it will allow teams to co-stream all of the ERL matches at the TO’s discretion, including first-person views, with the hope of giving a better viewing experience to fans.
LTRs and substitute requirements adjusted for LoL ERL in 2025
TOs will also have the possibility to add one more locally trained representative (LTR) in their own ERL, enabling the promotion of local talent and nurturing the growth of regional players. On the other hand, substitute requirements will be removed.
Emergency substitution can be required during an active competition but will have to meet the requirements highlighted in the rulebook, and they must be approved by the ERL’s respective TO.
In-person events and implementation of third-party Events
Given the goal of improving financial sustainability, TOs are no longer required to host mandatory live events. Instead, teams will be able to take part in third-party competitions, giving more competitive opportunities for players to showcase their skills (at the TO’s discretion).
Moreover, ERLs are no longer obliged to have a 2nd division. While there will be a promotion-relegation tournament at least once during the season, the changes should put less pressure on the TOs while guaranteeing enough growth opportunities for both teams and players aspiring to climb the competitive ecosystem. More details will be revealed in the upcoming weeks.
My two cents on the changes
Overall, these were needed changes as the ERLs have often been under scrutiny due to the lack of sustainability, both from a competitive and most importantly, economical standpoint. TOs will be required to actively listen to their teams and make sure they can improve the product and raise the leagues to new heights. It might not solve all the problems, but it’s worth trying and a good direction to work towards. I’m positive there will be better iterations and opportunities heading into 2025.