Major Play-In Format Change for Worlds 2026: LEC, LCS, CBLoL and MVK Battle for Main Stage Spot

In the context of the world's biggest League of Legends tournament approaching, Riot Games has announced a major change to the Play-In format for Worlds 2026. The new format not only opens opportunities for teams from mid and lower-tier regions but also creates a fiercer survival battle than ever before. By completely excluding LPL and LCK, the 2026 Play-In will feature four representatives from LEC, LCS, CBLoL and LCP, with Vietnamese team MVK Esports being one of the most important contenders. This article will analyze the changes in detail, focusing on tactical aspects, participation pathways, meta adaptability and the significance for the Vietnamese esports community.