After confirmation from Riot Games, the North American League of Legends league will reduce from ten teams to eight teams for the 2024 season.
A Monday social media post by LCS stated that Golden Guardians and Evil Geniuses are set to exit the LCS. This will leave the former players of the organizations free to welcome offers from elsewhere.
“Last week, we spoke with all LCS-partnered teams to convey our commitment to the LoL Esports ecosystem in North America and share our plans to reshape the league. In 2024, the LCS will be an 8-team league, as we made the mutual decision with Golden Guardians and Evil Geniuses to exit them from the LCS. This change will allow us to be much more flexible as we prepare to restructure the league for future success.”
“We made this change prior to free agency that begins today to allow impacted players the ability to pursue opportunities with other teams or leagues. A big thanks to Golden Guardians and Evil Geniuses, two teams who have provided many memorable moments for LCS fans. While we can’t discuss additional details at this time, we’ll do so as soon and as often as possible. We’re very eager to outline the full, long-term global strategy for the LCS and LoL Esports In early 2024.” John Needham, President, Esports, Riot Games, said.
The 2023 World Championships ended this weekend with a record-breaking viewership in the finals, but the League ecosystem is experiencing a setback as one of its major regions sees its participants cut down.
With the 2024 season set to begin, the LCS will start without Golden Guardians or EG, and neither will any other organizations take their place.
Golden Guardians’ organization chose to focus on other sports ventures, while Evil Geniuses has been having financial struggles in the last year.
Daniel Ademiju Idowu
