In a significant shift for the French esports landscape, the League of Legends French League (LFL) is set to introduce a new format for its 2026 season. This change, influenced predominantly by the rise of influencer-branded teams, will feature seven established LFL teams alongside two additional slots reserved for teams led by internet personalities. The LFL Invitational, kicking off on January 21, will see competitors from both LFL and Division 2, as well as Game Changers teams, in a bid to enhance viewership amid declining interest.
This decision follows the precedent set by popular organizations like Solary and Karmine Corp, which have successfully integrated influencers into the competitive scene. Currently, six of the eight teams qualified for the upcoming season are linked to streamers or YouTubers. Notable names, including Jean “TraYton” Medzadourian and former LEC player Yasin “Nisqy” Dinçer, are leading the newly established teams, adding a layer of intrigue to the competition.
In a departure from previous seasons, the LFL will only field seven teams instead of the customary ten, with GameWard and Karmine Corp Blue opting out. The decision to forego replacements for these teams underscores the league’s newfound focus on influencer-led initiatives. As part of this Invitational format, the two available spots will be contested by non-LFL teams, thereby creating a potentially more competitive environment.
Webedia, the league organizer, has openly acknowledged this pivot towards influencers, aiming to revitalize the league’s appeal. The agency’s rationale is rooted in addressing declining viewer numbers, which have plummeted by over a third in 2025. “Our goal was to have a winter split that celebrates the French esports ecosystem,” stated a league representative, emphasizing the need to adapt to a changing landscape.
The entry of influencer teams poses both unique opportunities and challenges. While they offer potentially fresh dynamics and marketability, concerns have arisen regarding competitive fairness. Teams run by TraYton and Nisqy enter as free agents, exempt from typical obligations like player contracts during this initial split. This leniency raises questions about the implications for other participating teams, many of which adhere to stricter requirements.
As the competition unfolds, the LFL community is expressing apprehension about how these influencer teams may disrupt the established order. TraYton’s roster, for instance, has the potential to significantly impact the tournament, especially considering his team’s aim to prove their worth at the highest tiers of competition. Meanwhile, Nisqy’s approach leans heavily toward entertainment, raising questions about the balance between competitive integrity and commercial appeal.
Despite these challenges, the influencer-led teams aim to integrate into the LFL framework should they qualify for future seasons. Webedia has assured existing clubs that discussions will be held to ensure compliance with rules that govern all participants. However, the exclusion from certain requirements has already sparked debate among organizations that have historically invested heavily in player salaries and operational costs.
As the league prepares for the winter split, issues regarding revenue sharing, contractual obligations, and compliance with local labor laws remain on the table. Clubs are particularly concerned about the implications if teams like TraYton’s and Nisqy’s secure spots in the LFL long-term. There is a fear that established organizations may suffer financially, especially if revenue streams become diluted due to the participation of influencer-led projects.
In light of these developments, the LFL is navigating uncharted waters. The inclusion of influencer teams reflects a broader trend in esports, where traditional structures are increasingly challenged by new, dynamic entities. As the competitive landscape continues to evolve, both fans and organizations will be closely monitoring the outcomes of this radical format change and its potential ramifications for the future.
