T1 CEO Joe Marsh Apologises to Fans Amid Controversy

T1 CEO Joe Marsh has issued an apology amid controversy surrounding the leading Esports organization over recent weeks. T1 hit the headlines due to messages sent to Nick “LS” De Cesare on their Discord server, while the organization was also accused of making generalizations surrounding the Korean culture and character.

Speaking on such issues, Marsh stated that:

“As I’ve reflected over this time, I realize I failed to publicly defend and protect LS and T1 fans by remaining silent. I want to start this by saying I’m sorry. Too much time has passed and my silence could be heard in every corner of our community.”

How T1 Found Themselves in This Position

League of Legends commentator LS was believed to be closing in on a switch to T1 as a coach, alongside former Starcraft pro Choi “Polt” Seong Hun. However, many fans were quick to critisize the decision, due to the reputation of LS. It was this that ultimately kick started a series of events that have shamed the organization.

Speaking on a video posted on the official T1 Twitter page, Marsh continued by stating:

“It saddens me to see T1, a team that has historically united so many people around the world, turn to hurtful rhetoric that has divided our fandoms in recent weeks. My hope is that we can begin to bridge this gap and build each other up, rather than continue to tear each other apart.”

Many in the Esports community were surprised that it took this long for Marsh to have his say on the issue, however the T1 CEO has finally taken responsibility. Marsh also extended a personal apology to LS, stating: “I also want to extend my apologies to LS’ family and friends for their shared pain. As I’ve reflected over this time, I realize I failed to publicly defend and protect LS and T1 fans by remaining silent. While my staff and I were working behind the scenes to resolve this matter, I should have spoken publicly sooner. Shortly, LS will personally share his plans. And once again, LS and T1 fans, I’m sorry.”

What T1 Will Do Now

Marsh and T1 have also commited to evaluating their guidelines and processes in an attempt to ensure that such a situation does not arise again in the future. T1 fans have recently boycotted the organization, even hiring a truck to display messages against them, including

“No future for a team that shuts out devoted fans.”

Meanwhile, the likes of Bwipo and Nemesis have showed their support for LS, condeming the actions of fans in the process. The Korean Esports scene is notoriously fierce, however rumours that fans had targeted LS’ grandmother certainly took things to far. Speaking on such abuse, Marsh apologised for “everything” in which LS has had to “personally endure” over recent times.