MSI 2026 is one of the biggest League of Legends events of the year. The tournament will take place in Daejeon, South Korea, from June 28 to July 12. As always, the best teams from around the world will compete for the title.
This year, Riot Games has prepared many activities for fans. In addition, the tournament features a huge prize pool of $2 million. Therefore, every match will carry extra importance.
Besides the trophy, teams will also fight for valuable advantages on the road to the 2026 World Championship.

Teams Competing at MSI 2026
A total of 11 teams will attend MSI 2026.

LCK
- Hanwha Life Esports
- T1
LPL
- Bilibili Gaming
- TOP Esports
LEC
- G2 Esports
- Karmine Corp
North America
- LYON
- Team Liquid Alienware
LCP
- Team Secret Whales
- Deep Cross Gaming
CBLOL
- FURIA
Meanwhile, Vietnamese fans will focus on Team Secret Whales. The team is the only Vietnamese representative at MSI 2026. As a result, expectations will be high.
MSI 2026 Format
The tournament format will look familiar to most fans. However, Riot has made a few changes to the Play-In Stage.
First, four teams will compete in a double-elimination bracket. After that, only one team will advance.
Next, the Bracket Stage will feature eight teams. Furthermore, the double-elimination format will remain in place. Therefore, teams will still have a second chance after a loss.
Because of this format, fans can expect many dramatic series.
MSI 2026 Predictions
Hanwha Life Esports
HLE enters MSI 2026 as one of the biggest favorites.
The team has looked dominant throughout the season. Moreover, it recently secured the LCK’s first seed. Players such as Zeus, Viper, and Zeka are all performing at a very high level.
As a result, HLE has a strong chance to win the tournament.
T1
T1 can never be ignored at an international event.
The team is led by Faker, the most successful player in League of Legends history. Furthermore, T1 has a reputation for improving during major tournaments.
Although the road may be difficult, T1 remains a serious title contender.
Bilibili Gaming
BLG will represent the strength of the LPL.
The team combines aggressive play with excellent team fighting. In addition, BLG has gained valuable international experience over the last few years.
Therefore, many fans expect BLG to reach the final stages of MSI.
Dark Horse Teams
Several teams could surprise everyone.
For example, G2 Esports has often performed well internationally. Likewise, Team Liquid has shown strong improvement this season.
Meanwhile, Team Secret Whales will try to create memorable upsets. Even if expectations are lower, the Vietnamese squad could still surprise stronger opponents.
Pick’Ems Returns
Pick’Ems is one of the most popular MSI activities.
Fans can predict match results through LoLEsports.com or inside League of Legends. Then, they can earn exclusive rewards based on their performance.
The better the predictions, the better the rewards.
Consequently, fans have another reason to follow every stage of the tournament.

Crystal Ball Debuts at MSI
This year, Riot is introducing Crystal Ball predictions.
Unlike Pick’Ems, Crystal Ball focuses on statistics and tournament trends. For example, fans can predict the most-picked champion or the best-performing player.
Additionally, they can guess unique records and special moments.
Because of this feature, viewers can engage with the tournament in a new way.

Exclusive MSI 2026 Skins
Riot Games has selected Betrayer Jhin as the official MSI 2026 skin.
Fans can purchase the skin and several related bundles. More importantly, part of the revenue will support participating esports organizations.
After MSI ends, Riot will also release champion-themed rewards.
Furthermore, fans from the winning region will receive a special benefit. They can purchase the champion icon and emote for only one Blue Essence each.

Record-Breaking Co-Streams
MSI 2026 will feature the largest co-streaming program in the event’s history.
According to Riot Games, more than 100 creators will broadcast the tournament. As a result, fans will have many viewing options.
Moreover, qualified teams can also participate in official co-streaming programs.
Therefore, viewers can enjoy MSI from different perspectives and in different languages.

Fan Festa Brings MSI to Life
Fans visiting South Korea should not miss Fan Festa.
The event will run from July 3 to July 12. During that time, visitors can enjoy many League of Legends activities.
One of the biggest attractions is the Locke experience zone. Here, fans can explore a dark fantasy world inspired by Locke and Vayne.
In addition, several mini-games will be available.

These activities include:
- Baron Smite Challenge
- Demon Smash
- Archery Challenge
- League Trivia Booth
Meanwhile, visitors can also meet content creators and cosplayers.
Furthermore, they can visit team booths, artist areas, and the Riot Games merchandise store.
Because of these activities, Fan Festa is expected to attract thousands of fans.
Final Thoughts
MSI 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event. Not only will the tournament feature elite teams, but it will also offer many activities for fans.
HLE, T1, and BLG currently look like the strongest contenders. However, surprises are always part of MSI.
Meanwhile, events such as Pick’Ems, Crystal Ball, co-streams, and Fan Festa will keep fans engaged throughout the tournament.
Overall, MSI 2026 promises exciting matches, memorable moments, and plenty of opportunities for fans to join the action.
Read more:
HLE Overcomes T1 and Reaches MSI for the First Time
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