In a thrilling final match, Bilibili Gaming (BLG) emerged victorious in the 2026 First Stand tournament by defeating G2 Esports with a 3-1 score. This win marked BLG’s first international League of Legends title, a significant achievement for the organization. The final took place on March 22nd at Riot Games Arena in São Paulo, Brazil. Notably, Park ‘Viper’ Do-hyeon, the Bot Laner for Bilibili Gaming, became the first player to win First Stand in consecutive years, having also claimed the title in 2025 with Hanwha Life Esports.
BLG’s victory had broader implications beyond just lifting the trophy. With this win, the League of Legends Pro League (LPL) secured a seeding advantage for the upcoming Mid-Season Invitational (MSI). As a result, the region’s second seed would skip the Play-In Stage and directly advance to the Bracket Stage.
The series kicked off with G2 taking the initial map, with Rasmus ‘Caps’ Borregaard Winther delivering an impressive performance for the EMEA team. However, BLG bounced back in game two by leveraging global pressure through Pantheon and Galio, leveling the series. The Chinese team then dominated the final, clinching game three with stellar performances from Zhuo ‘knight’ Ding and Chen ‘Bin’ Zebin.
Despite G2 initially leading in game four, BLG turned the tables after a crucial fight near the dragon pit. Bin played a pivotal role in securing the victory by swiftly eliminating G2’s Bot Laner, Steven ‘Hans Sama’ Liv, during the deciding push. Bin’s outstanding performance earned him the title of OPPO Player of the Series.
BLG’s Remarkable Start in 2026
The victory represented a significant milestone for Bilibili Gaming, marking their first international title since the organization’s inception. For Viper, this win added another accolade to his illustrious career, showcasing his consistency on the global stage.
The First Stand tournament not only crowned BLG as the champions but also provided an early gauge for regions ahead of MSI and the upcoming season.
Gen.G and BNK FEARX Show Strong Potential
Despite not reaching the final, Gen.G and BNK FEARX from the League of Champions Korea (LCK) demonstrated their ability to compete on the international stage. Gen.G’s journey ended in the semifinals against G2 after a promising run in the earlier stages. BNK FEARX made a notable impression in their international debut, challenging BLG in a full series and securing a 3-0 victory against Team Secret Whales.
One standout player, Nam ‘Diable’ Dae-geun, the Bot Laner for BNK FEARX, showcased exceptional skill with pentakills against both BLG and Team Secret Whales. Despite their early exit, BNK FEARX’s performance raised their profile in the esports scene.
While the LPL emerged victorious in First Stand, the tournament highlighted the depth of talent in the LCK. Gen.G and BNK FEARX showcased their potential, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. With the conclusion of First Stand, all eyes are now on MSI, where BLG’s win has given the LPL a strategic edge in the competition.