Over recent weeks, LFL teams have been finalizing their rosters for the 2025 season. With GameWard completing its lineup yesterday, nine out of ten teams now have their starting rosters in place, as reflected in the Transfers Hub.

A Salary Cap for the League

This offseason saw the implementation of a notable change that has significantly influenced roster construction. Ahead of the roster-building period, discussions took place between the teams and Webedia to introduce a salary cap in the LFL. This measure, advocated by several parties involved, aims to control spending and promote sustainability within the LFL and the broader esports ecosystem.

Initially, a cap of €300,000 per year was considered, but this was later adjusted to €250,000. Sources who provided this information to Sheep Esports clarified that the cap applies solely to the five players on each LFL roster, excluding additional staff.

At the time of this article’s publication, sources are uncertain about the formal validation of the cap. However, Sheep Esports has observed that all teams appear to be adhering to the €250,000 cap during this offseason. Currently, this salary limit functions as a "gentleman's agreement" among the teams.

Impact on Roster Construction

The salary cap has led to most LFL player salaries for 2025 falling within the range of €25,000 to €50,000, with top-tier rosters closer to the higher end. While financial considerations remain relevant, the cap has shifted emphasis to other aspects in roster negotiations. Factors such as gaming houses, coaching staff, and team rosters became crucial in player decisions when choosing between teams. Additionally, academies with LEC teams gained a notable advantage, as the opportunity for promotion to the main team became a more significant draw in a more balanced salary landscape.

This new salary cap has affected the spending of several teams. Sources indicate that some organizations had previously exceeded the €250,000 limit, while others operated below it, experiencing no direct impact. Team BDS Academy, one of the organizations reportedly above the cap last year, has notably reduced its budget for 2025.

As a result, the LFL is expected to be more balanced in 2025, with top talents spread across the league rather than concentrated on one roster.

A similar salary cap was introduced in the LEC last year, where, according to a report from blix.gg, the cap was set at €2 million annually. Sources suggest this limit may decrease further in the future.