Following BLG's victory in the Global Pioneer Championship, Riot recently updated the worldwide team strength rankings. BLG, as the champion, overtook GEN to ascend to the number one position. Ever since this ranking system was established, the top spot had consistently been occupied by LCK teams; BLG has now ended that reign. But Riot's strength rankings consider match outcomes, so GEN, eliminated in the quarter-finals, remains ranked second on the list.

After G2 defeated two LCK teams to secure the runner-up position, their ranking soared, rising from seventh to third. This marks the first time a European or American team has entered the top three of the power rankings. The subsequent positions 3-6 are occupied by T1, AL, and HLE, all teams that performed well last year. Within the top ten, two other LPL teams are listed: TES ranks eighth, and JDG, which participated in the Pioneer Championship, currently holds the ninth spot.

T1 Announces: kkOma Takes a Break

The second stage of LCK officially begins on April 1st. Recently, all ten teams announced their starting lineup for the new stage. Strong teams' rosters remained largely unchanged, but T1's head coach changed from kkOma to Tom. The club recently issued a statement: kkOma requested a temporary break for personal reasons to adjust. After discussions, the club respected his wishes, and kkOma will start his leave from the regular season.

As a distinguished coach for T1, kkOma progressed from coach to head coach, witnessing T1's growth throughout. If he didn't wish to leave, T1 would certainly retain him. However, his conflicts with "Big Egg" last year and the decision to release him during the transfer period were somewhat questionable. After stepping back from drafting responsibilities, kkOma seemed inclined toward internal disputes. His departure might benefit T1, as Tom is considered more capable.

Riot Announces World Championship Slots

Riot recently updated information regarding the 2026 Global Finals. The format has undergone significant adjustments this year: the total number of participating teams increased from 17 to 19. Each of the five major regions will have three teams. The MSI champion qualifies directly (must reach playoffs), and the runner-up gains an additional slot. Additionally, the Brazilian region receives one extra slot (totaling two teams). Combined, this makes 19 teams entering the qualification stage.

The qualification stage involves four teams competing in a BO5 double-elimination format, ultimately producing one team for the main event. Subsequent stages follow the previous format: Swiss round, followed by knockout, semifinals, and finals. The event will be held in North America: qualification in Los Angeles; Swiss round to semifinals in Allen, Texas; and the final in Brooklyn, New York City. The World Championship spans one month, from October 15th to November 14th.

Nuguri Discusses Reasons for Retirement

LOL world champion top-laner Nuguri recently appeared on an LCK host interview program alongside Beryl. Both were asked about their retirement reasons. Nuguri stated his main reason was poor mental management: during matches, he always aimed to be the best (top-laner number one), but at that time he felt Zeus was the strongest top-laner, performing far better. Hence, he considered retirement.

Beryl mentioned that if he couldn't reach the World Championship, he felt profoundly empty and preferred resting instead. Ending at the World Championship seemed a good choice. Beryl already has two championships and is older, so retirement is fitting. However, Nuguri chose to retire hastily while still at his peak, which is regrettable. Perhaps the Iceland incident with FPX impacted him too deeply.

Conclusion:

With the team count increasing to 19, IG's 17th-place finish last year truly becomes a unique record. Adding one slot for the Brazilian region is positive; LOL's popularity there surpasses North America, with passionate audiences. If managed well, it could eventually overtake LCS and potentially replace North America as a major region among the top five.

So, how do you view Nuguri's strength during his peak?

Feel free to share your thoughts and discuss!