It’s finally here! Everything's in place for the PUBG Europe League (PEL): Phase One. After a ton of speculation surrounding the league’s launch date, Thursday, March 21st is the official start of PEL Phase One Kick Off.





The key word being “Kick Off.” If you haven’t heard, I’ll briefly explain why it’s included in PEL for the first phase.





The first phase will share similarities with North American PUBG league (NPL), but it will have a fair share of differences too. Due to a variety of unknown delays, the first phase of PEL has been vacuum-packed to fit in as many matches as possible with the first-ever PUBG Classic approaching fast. It could be slightly confusing for casual viewers, who are expecting a similar schedule/system as NPL, but the important part is that a schedule was created to adhere to the less than ideal circumstances.





Here’s how the PEL schedule will work during Phase One:

I can imagine it’s been a mess behind the scenes for many involved at PUBG Corp. and Starladder. Selfishly, I’m going to enjoy spectating this action-packed three-week season, featuring many of competitive PUBG’s best players and teams.





In comparison, NPL featured a five-week phase consisting of four matches per day on Friday and Saturday. So, we’ll see 20 more matches over the course of a phase that’s two weeks shorter.





It was announced that the promotion and relegation system will not be in place for PEL Phase One Kick Off. Meaning all sixteen teams return for the second phase, where the system will be implemented.





Here’s the prize pool breakdown:





1st - $75,000, FACEIT Global Summit Invite

2nd - $50,000, FACEIT Global Summit Invite

3rd - $35,000, FACEIT Global Summit Invite

4th - $25,000, FACEIT Global Summit Invite

5th - $15,000

6th - $10,000

7th - $7,500

8th - $7,500





Aside from the large payday incentive, the top four teams after 60 matches will also be invited to the previously mentioned FACEIT Global Summit: PUBG Classic. The first of two PUBG Classics, where they’ll have the chance to play for additional prize money and represent their region on a national scale. The first-ever global event will take place in London on April 16th.

Two teams I would pick to surprise us during PEL Phase One:

The Finnish powerhouse has entered the competitive PUBG scene with the signing of the “o1ne” roster. The CEO of ENCE, Mika Kuusisto said: “PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds has taken significant steps in creating attractive league structure, justifying ENCE to start expanding internationally.” It's great to see another large org invest in PUBG, and they’ve got a squad consisting of at least three experienced players. Between ‘TRYFFELI’ and ‘Rustanmar’ alone, ENCE appears to have the firepower to impress.

TSM snuck into PEL after their close call that came down to the final match of qualifiers. That was their first tournament with this current roster, and I’d suspect they had things to iron out as a new team. Individually, we’ve seen each member display their talent during public games and FACEIT matches, but how will the guys come together in this talented lobby?

The two teams I would pick to win PEL Phase One:

Arguably one of the most well-rounded and decorated squads in competitive PUBG. They’re a team consisting of four very talented players with a ton of experience. The league has one of the most competitive lobbies we’ve seen, but if anyone has the players to handle it, it’s these guys.

Similar to Liquid, their roster is loaded with big names from the PUBG scene. Aitzy, FuzzFace, Mxey, and Ubah will be playing in their second Major as a team, the first being Global Loot League Season 3 played back in December where they placed third. Up against some of the same opponents, FaZe played well, proving themselves once again. I don’t see any signs of that changing.





It’s been announced recently that Starladder will be returning “Team Streams”, so you’ll be able to follow along your favorite team, making sure you don’t miss any of the action. The lobby is stacked, the teams are ready, and if the league is anything like previous EU tournaments, we’re in for some excellent matches.



