The KeSPA Cup 2025 is set for one of its most exciting editions yet as Team Liquid and Cloud9 to join LOL headlines a major shift in the event’s international draw. For the first time in the tournament’s history, two LCS organisations will compete alongside the LCK’s full lineup, marking a significant step toward increasing cross-regional competition. Running from December 6th to 14th, this year’s event brings renewed attention to Korean off-season League of Legends play.
Expanded Format Sparks Fresh Opportunities
The announcement that Team Liquid and Cloud9 to join League Of Legends in the KeSPA Cup arrives just as the tournament unveils its revamped structure. With 14 teams now involved—including Japan and Vietnam’s all-star rosters—the competition introduces three round-robin groups, all played as best-of-one matches. Group winners move directly to the semifinals, while second-place finishers enter the Breakout Stage. This stage’s best-of-three format presents another layer of challenge for teams aiming to reach the Knockout stage.
The Knockout stage, held offline at the Sangam Forest Colosseum, will feature a double-elimination bracket with best-of-three series leading into a best-of-five grand final. As Team Liquid and Cloud9 to join LOL in this new format, the North American teams must adapt quickly if they hope to challenge established Korean rosters.
New Rosters, New Expectations
The off-season timing means some teams may enter with incomplete or experimental lineups. Still, the decision for Team Liquid and Cloud9 to join LOL competition at KeSPA Cup 2025 highlights their desire to gain early synergy ahead of the 2026 season. Cloud9 recently parted ways with mid laner Loki, while Team Liquid said goodbye to APA and Impact, making this tournament a potential testing ground for their developing rosters.
Cloud9’s General Manager David Han noted that securing participation wasn’t easy, but the drive for Team Liquid and Cloud9 to join LOL competition on Korean soil was strong. His sentiment reflects a growing ambition from Western teams to integrate into Korea’s highly competitive esports environment.
As excitement builds, the decision for Team Liquid and Cloud9 to join LOL fans worldwide promises a rare early-season showdown—one that could influence how international teams prepare for the year ahead.
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