Today in an unexpected article Director of Global Organized Play Helene Bergeot announced the return of National Championships. These tournaments, retired with the introduction of the World Magic Cup and the associated Qualifiers, were fan favorites and helped to build enthusiasm for national teams heading into the World Championships.

The success of the World Magic Cup and "the spirit of Nationals", according to Bergeot, prompted the return the popular tournament. Bergeot cited the successful growth of local organizers thanks to the World Magic Cup Qualifier system as laying the foundation for a return to Nationals. While the Top Pro Points earner from each country will still captain their World Magic Cup team, the top 2 finishers from each National Championship will earn a roster slot. The list of eligible players for each country and be found at the Premier Event Policy.

The World Magic Cup teams will now be three people instead of two and the format will be based on Standard. All Nationals will also be Standard. Nationals will be scheduled in March and will take place over the weekends of September 9, 16, and 23.

Also announced today were changes to Grand Prix adjacent events. Starting this weekend a Sunday Pro Tour Qualifier will be offered at Grand Prix events. Grand Prix Trials will no longer be offered at local stores and instead be held on site the Friday before an event.

Magic continues to grow and the revival of Nationals is sure to make older players excited. These tournaments were known for shaping the metagame and it will be interesting to see if in this new era of information that truism remains.