MarkZ explains the new normal of the 2026 season and the allocation of World Championship slots.

After a brief stint as the United States League (LTA), the League of Legends Championship Series (LCS) has officially announced its return in 2026.

In a recent interview, LCS tournament specialist MarkZ admitted that fans' sense of belonging and their affection for local brands are the core driving forces that have enabled LCS to resume independent operation.

MarkZ stated that while last year's integration aimed to evolve the Americas region, feedback indicated that fans felt something was missing. In response to community feedback, the LCS and CBLOL (Brazil) will once again operate as independent leagues.

However, the experience of LTA has not been abandoned, and the two sides will continue to maintain the cross-regional competition mechanism in the Americas Cup in the future.

Regarding the international tournament slots for the 2026 season, which is of most concern to players, MarkZ confirmed that the configuration standard of 2024 will be returned: the LCS region will have 2 MSI (Mid-Season Invitational) slots and 3 S-series (World Championship) slots.

Furthermore, in the First Stand, the LCS will no longer need to compete with the Brazilian region for the same spot; instead, each region will have its own independent slot.

In terms of scheduling, the new season will depart from the previously overly cramped and dense schedule. By restoring longer regular season splits, the LCS aims to provide fans with a more relaxed viewing experience and rebuild the emotional connection between viewers, teams, and players.