The League of Legends World Championship 2025, better known as Worlds 2025, is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and strategically diverse tournaments in the history of esports. With the introduction of the Fearless Draft format, a deeper champion pool, and a global spread of rising talent, the race for the Summoner’s Cup is more unpredictable than ever. This article breaks down the top contenders, evaluates their strengths and weaknesses, and estimates their probability of winning based on current performance, historical trends, and meta adaptability.
Tournament Overview
Worlds 2025 will run from October 14 to November 9, spanning three Chinese cities: Beijing (Play-In and Swiss Stage), Shanghai (Quarterfinals and Semifinals), and Chengdu (Finals). The format includes:
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Play-In Stage: A best-of-five clash between the fourth seeds from LCK and LPL.
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Swiss Stage: 16 teams compete in five rounds of best-of-one matches, with elimination and advancement decided by win-loss records.
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Knockout Stage: Single-elimination best-of-five matches leading to the grand final.
The Fearless Draft format, where champions cannot be reused in a series, adds a layer of strategic depth that rewards teams with broader champion pools and flexible drafting.
Top Contenders and Their Probabilities
1. T1 (LCK – South Korea)
Estimated Probability to Win: 22%
T1 enters Worlds 2025 as a perennial favorite, led by the legendary mid laner Faker. Their performance in the LCK has been dominant, showcasing disciplined macro play, exceptional laning, and a deep understanding of the evolving meta. T1’s ability to adapt to the Fearless Draft format is unmatched, thanks to their versatile champion pools and strategic coaching staff.
Strengths:
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Veteran leadership and international experience
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Deep champion pool across all roles
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Strong synergy and communication
Weaknesses:
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Occasional overreliance on mid-jungle synergy
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Vulnerable to early-game aggression from LPL teams
T1’s consistency and adaptability make them the most statistically favored team to win Worlds 20251.
2. Gen.G Esports (LCK – South Korea)
Estimated Probability to Win: 18%
Gen.G, the MSI 2025 champions, secured LCK’s fourth seed and are considered one of the most methodical teams in the tournament. Their scaling compositions and late-game teamfighting are second to none. Gen.G’s disciplined approach and ability to control objectives give them a strong edge in best-of-five series.
Strengths:
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Strategic macro play and objective control
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Strong late-game decision-making
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Proven international success
Weaknesses:
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Slower early-game tempo
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Draft predictability in high-pressure matches
Gen.G’s calculated style may struggle against aggressive teams, but their experience and composure make them a serious title threat3.
3. Bilibili Gaming (LPL – China)
Estimated Probability to Win: 15%
Bilibili Gaming, the LPL Split 3 champions, are known for their creative drafts and mechanical prowess. Their aggressive laning and high-tempo playstyle are tailor-made for punishing slower teams. With a roster stacked with talent and a fearless approach to teamfights, BLG is China’s best hope for reclaiming the Summoner’s Cup.
Strengths:
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Aggressive early-game dominance
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Innovative champion picks
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High mechanical ceiling
Weaknesses:
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Risky decision-making under pressure
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Inconsistent macro execution
BLG’s volatility makes them exciting but unpredictable. If they maintain composure, they could bulldoze their way to the finals1.
4. G2 Esports (LEC – Europe)
Estimated Probability to Win: 10%
G2 remains Europe’s most iconic team, blending chaotic creativity with strategic brilliance. Their ability to surprise opponents with unconventional drafts and unpredictable playstyles makes them a dangerous wildcard. G2’s experience in international play and their revamped roster give them a fighting chance.
Strengths:
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Unpredictable and flexible drafts
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Strong mid-game skirmishing
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Veteran leadership
Weaknesses:
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Inconsistent early-game execution
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Vulnerable to disciplined macro teams
G2’s success hinges on their ability to disrupt the meta and catch opponents off guard. If they peak at the right time, they could make a deep run.
5. JD Gaming (LPL – China)
Estimated Probability to Win: 9%
JD Gaming is renowned for their early-game aggression and snowball potential. Their ability to dominate lanes and convert leads into victories makes them a formidable opponent. However, their inconsistency in high-stakes matches has raised concerns.
Strengths:
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Lane dominance and early-game pressure
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Fast-paced objective control
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Strong mechanical execution
Weaknesses:
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Struggles in extended series
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Limited champion flexibility
JDG’s path to victory depends on maintaining momentum and avoiding mental fatigue in long series1.
6. Hanwha Life Esports (LCK – South Korea)
Estimated Probability to Win: 7%
Hanwha Life Esports has emerged as a rising force in the LCK, with aggressive laners and a fearless approach to teamfights. Their youth and hunger make them a dangerous opponent, especially in the Swiss Stage.
Strengths:
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Aggressive laning phase
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High-risk, high-reward playstyle
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Strong individual mechanics
Weaknesses:
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Lack of international experience
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Susceptible to macro errors
Hanwha’s upside is significant, but their inexperience could be a liability in the Knockout Stage.
7. Cloud9 (LCS – North America)
Estimated Probability to Win: 5%
Cloud9 remains North America’s most consistent international performer. Their mix of veteran leadership and young talent gives them a balanced roster capable of upsets. However, NA’s historical struggles at Worlds temper expectations.
Strengths:
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Solid mid-jungle synergy
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Adaptable drafting
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Strong mental resilience
Weaknesses:
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Limited depth in champion pools
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Struggles against top-tier macro teams
Cloud9’s best-case scenario involves a Cinderella run, but their odds remain slim against elite competition.
8. Fnatic (LEC – Europe)
Estimated Probability to Win: 4%
Fnatic’s revamped roster has injected new life into the team. With a focus on aggressive mid-game skirmishes and improved coordination, they could surprise doubters. However, their inconsistency remains a concern.
Strengths:
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Improved team synergy
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Aggressive mid-game tempo
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Strong fan support
Weaknesses:
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Inconsistent laning phase
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Draft inflexibility
Fnatic’s path to victory requires flawless execution and favorable matchups.
9. PSG Talon (PCS – Taiwan/HK/Macau)
Estimated Probability to Win: 3%
PSG Talon has a history of overperforming at international events. Their fearless playstyle and creative strategies make them a potential upset team. However, their ceiling is limited compared to major region powerhouses.
Strengths:
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Surprise factor and creative drafts
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Aggressive teamfighting
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Strong regional dominance
Weaknesses:
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Limited experience against top-tier teams
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Shallow champion pools
PSG Talon could make waves in the Swiss Stage but are unlikely to reach the finals.
Dark Horses and Regional Surprises
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Top Esports (LPL): Explosive but inconsistent. If they stabilize, they could challenge the top seeds.
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Karmine Corp (LEC): Massive fan support and momentum. Their integration into the LEC has been promising.
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100 Thieves (LCS): Aggressive mid-jungle duo could surprise in early rounds.
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GAM Esports (VCS): Known for fearless aggression. Capable of early upsets but unlikely to sustain a deep run.
Meta Impact and Strategic Trends
The Fearless Draft format has dramatically shifted team preparation. Success now hinges on:
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Champion Pool Depth: Teams must prepare multiple viable picks per role.
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Draft Flexibility: Ability to pivot strategies mid-series is crucial.
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Coaching and Preparation: Analytical depth and scouting are more valuable than ever.
Teams with strong infrastructure and strategic coaching—such as T1, Gen.G, and G2—are better positioned to thrive under these conditions.
Conclusion
Worlds 2025 promises a thrilling clash of styles, strategies, and legacies. While T1 and Gen.G lead the pack in terms of probability, the unpredictable nature of the tournament and the strategic complexity introduced by Fearless Draft mean that no team is safe. Upsets are inevitable, and dark horses could rise. As the global League of Legends community turns its eyes to China, one thing is certain: the road to the Summoner’s Cup will be paved with brilliance, heartbreak, and unforgettable moments.