Rogue returns to the LEC for 2024 after cutting ties with KOI

Rogue, the iconic esports organization, is set to make a triumphant return to the League of Legends European Championship (LEC) in 2024.

This move comes on the heels of a strategic partnership dissolution between Rogue’s parent company, Infinite Reality, and Spanish esports organization KOI. ReKT Global, the driving force behind Rogue, announced the rebranding in a recent post on the KOI English X account. The decision to reclaim the Rogue brand signifies a bold move by ReKTGlobal to regain its brand identity and capitalize on the significant weight and influence that the Rogue name carries, especially after their LEC Championship win in 2022.

Official statement #hoodup #gorogue pic.twitter.com/vb8rlBWemE

— KOI English (@KOIxENG) November 22, 2023

 

The partnership between Rogue and KOI, initiated in October 2022 with the aim of competing in the LEC, took an unexpected turn as KOI faced financial challenges and underperformed in 2023. The fallout led to a split between KOI and Rogue’s parent company, Infinite Reality, in November. Infinite Reality retained ownership of franchises in the LEC and Call of Duty League, along with Rocket League and Rainbow Six divisions.

Rogue returns to LEC after a disappointing 2023 season

The LEC spot, crucial for Rogue’s revival, will seamlessly transfer back to the organization, allowing them to leverage their strong fanbase and historical success in the league. The controversy surrounding the decision to abandon the Rogue branding after their 2022 Championship win becomes a pivotal element in this revival as Rogue aims to navigate the competitive landscape with its well-established identity.

Rogue’s return to the LEC also marks a departure from the recent struggles faced by KOI, as financial issues and a 7th-place finish in Championship points prevented them from qualifying for Worlds 2023. The Rogue brand, having reached the quarterfinals at Worlds 2022 and boasting a successful 2022 season, is poised for a fresh start.

While only two players from the 2022 Worlds roster remain on the ex-KOI roster, Rogue is optimistic about attracting new talent to compete for LEC titles again. The organization, known for developing top European players like Larssen, Inspired, and Trymbi, aims to build on its legacy and break new barriers in the European League scene.

In a statement released on social media, Rogue emphasized that the revival of the Rogue brand is a testament to the fans’ loyalty, hinting at future plans that will be revealed in the coming weeks. Reports suggest that Rogue has already secured its lineup for 2024, including former SK jungler Markoon and rookie support Zoelys, alongside the stalwarts Szygenda and Comp.

As Rogue prepares for its comeback in the LEC, the esports community eagerly awaits to see if this iconic brand can recapture its former glories and continue to be a dominant force in the European League of Legends. 

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