From June 27 to July 12, the global elite of League of Legends will gather at the Mid-Season Invitational 2025—the second international tournament of the year. Ten teams from around the world will compete for the prestigious title, $2,000,000, and a spot at Worlds 2025.
Tournament Format
The play-in stage of MSI 2025 will be held in a GSL group format with four teams. The team distribution is based on the results of the First Stand 2025. All matches will be played in a bo5 format with Fearless Draft—teams are banned from picking the same champions used in previous games of the series. Ultimately, the top two teams (with scores of 2-0 and 2-1) will advance to the playoffs.
Playoffs will take place from July 1–12. In this stage, 8 teams will compete in a Double Elimination bracket. All matches are bo5 with Fearless Draft. The winner of MSI automatically qualifies for Worlds, and the top two regions based on tournament results will receive a fourth slot for their domestic league at the world championship.
Opening Matches
Main Favorite — Gen.G
The South Korean Gen.G enters the tournament as the main favorite. The team dominated the LCK, finishing the regular season undefeated, and maintained this confidence in the playoffs. Their gameplay style is characterized by flawless discipline, strategic macro play, and ironclad stability. Gen.G are the reigning champions of last year's MSI, so their task will be to defend their title.
Title Contenders — T1 and Anyone’s Legend
T1, legends of the League of Legends scene, though not in their best form, remain a serious threat. Their roster still boasts star players, and in major tournaments, T1 always shifts into a higher gear. If the team finds stability during MSI, they could very well reach the finals.
From the Chinese region, Anyone’s Legend is a team that deservedly became LPL champions on their second attempt, demonstrating stability and confidence in crucial moments. Their journey to MSI was challenging, but it only strengthened the team. With an aggressive style and fresh approach, AL has every chance to reclaim the top spot for China.
Dark Horses — CTBC Flying Oyster and Movistar KOI
Taiwanese CTBC Flying Oyster surprised everyone at First Stand, showcasing mature gameplay and solid preparation. Their greatest asset is their ability to adapt to opponents. If they can quickly find their rhythm at MSI, they might disrupt the plans of the favorites.
Movistar KOI, unexpected victors of Europe, managed to secure a spot at MSI thanks to their aggressive style and unconventional picks. Their energy, ambition, and team chemistry make KOI a potential wildcard in the tournament. More details on the team's journey to the LEC Spring 2025 championship can be found in our separate article.
Worth Watching — Bilibili Gaming
Bilibili Gaming may not be among the top favorites, but they are a team with the potential to soar. Their roster is extremely talented, and if BLG can realize their potential, they could not only advance from the group stage but also compete for the title. Their main challenge will be maintaining stability and psychological resilience in key moments.
Final Thoughts
MSI 2025 will be an arena where the strongest regional teams collide. Gen.G will try to maintain their lead, T1 will aim to reclaim their crown, and newcomers like Anyone's Legend, KOI, and CFO will aim to break the underdog status. The tournament promises to be the most competitive in recent years, and every match could change the course of history.
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