TSM Confirms Departure from the LCS
One of the most iconic names in North American esports, Team SoloMid (TSM), has officially announced its exit from the League of Legends Championship Series (LCS). The organization, founded by Andy “Reginald” Dinh, revealed that it is in the process of relocating its League of Legends roster to another major competitive region. This historic decision closes a 13-year chapter of TSM’s presence in the North American league and opens a new era in the team’s pursuit of international success.
Reginald confirmed the news through a heartfelt message on social media, explaining that the move has been in planning for years. “We have made the difficult decision to begin moving our LoL roster to another tier-1 region. This news may be disappointing, but honestly, we’ve been working on this for the past three years. I believe that moving to another region will restore our desire to win and help us win the World Championship,” he wrote. The announcement has sent shockwaves through the League of Legends community, as TSM has been one of the defining organizations in North America, shaping the region’s competitive scene since its earliest days.
A Legacy of 13 Years in North America
TSM’s history in the LCS is one of dominance, drama, and unforgettable rivalries. The team was a staple in nearly every split since the league’s inception, winning multiple LCS titles and representing North America at numerous World Championships. Their early clashes with teams like Cloud9 and Counter Logic Gaming defined the golden age of the NA scene, and TSM’s fanbase grew into one of the largest in global esports. Over the years, TSM fielded rosters that included some of the most recognizable names in the game — Bjergsen, Doublelift, Hauntzer, and many others. These players not only won trophies but also became the faces of North American League of Legends.
However, in recent years, TSM’s fortunes declined. Despite occasional domestic success, the team struggled internationally, often failing to make deep runs at Worlds. Financial pressures and competitive stagnation further complicated the picture, raising questions about the sustainability of maintaining a roster in North America.
Reginald’s statement acknowledged the contribution of all those who had been part of TSM’s 13-year journey: “I want to thank all the coaches, players, and staff who have worked with us for the past 13 years. Thank you to our fans, without whom TSM would not have achieved anything.”The decision to leave the LCS has roots in both competitive ambition and financial realities. Reginald stressed that the move is motivated by the desire to win at the highest level, something TSM has not achieved in years. Competing in another tier-1 region — such as Korea’s LCK, China’s LPL, or Europe’s LEC — could expose the team to stronger competition, improving their chances of becoming contenders on the world stage.
According to reports, TSM was already in discussions with the LPL in 2022, exploring the possibility of relocating to China. In March 2023, rumors surfaced about the organization’s interest in selling its LCS slot, with financial difficulties cited as a driving factor. Reginald’s latest comments appear to confirm these earlier reports, indicating that both business and competitive strategy influenced the decision. The North American esports ecosystem has faced growing challenges, including declining viewership for the LCS and increasing operational costs. By moving to a region with stronger performance records and larger fan engagement, TSM hopes to rejuvenate its global brand and reestablish itself as a serious contender.
What’s Next for TSM and Its Fans
For now, Reginald has not revealed which region TSM will officially join, leaving fans in suspense. Equally uncertain is the future of the team’s current roster. It remains unclear whether the existing players will relocate with the organization or if TSM will build an entirely new squad suited to the region they enter. Speculation is rife within the community. If TSM joins the LPL, it could tap into one of the most competitive ecosystems in the world, facing elite opponents on a weekly basis. A move to the LCK would offer similar benefits but with a different set of cultural and operational challenges. Even the LEC is a possibility, providing access to Europe’s strong infrastructure and established fanbase.
Regardless of the destination, TSM’s departure from the LCS marks the end of an era. For North America, losing its most storied organization represents a symbolic blow, raising concerns about the future of the league. For TSM fans worldwide, however, the move also carries hope — a chance for their team to once again compete at the very top level. Reginald concluded his announcement with a rallying call: “I am very excited about our move; let’s win Worlds.” This statement encapsulates the ambition driving TSM’s bold step — an ambition to rise beyond regional limitations and chase the ultimate goal in League of Legends esports.
