TSM leaves LCS: legendary slot bought by Shopify Rebellion

The esports world is in shock: the legendary club Team SoloMid (TSM) is officially leaving the North American League of Legends LCS league, having sold its slot to the Shopify Rebellion organization. This event does not just close one era – it opens a new page for both TSM and the league itself. The announcement of the deal appeared on the official pages of both organizations, immediately causing a wave of discussions among fans.

TSM is leaving its home region: why?

TSM CEO Andy Ding announced his intention to leave the LCS back in May 2023. The reasons? TSM is aiming high: the organization intends to strengthen its position in another tier-1 region. This could be Europe, South Korea, or even China — regions with a high level of competition, where TSM is clearly ready to come with ambitions to become a leader. This decision is a bold move that demonstrates that TSM is not afraid to take risks for the sake of the future. The organization is rethinking its strategy in order to stay on top on a global scale.

Shopify Rebellion, known for its success in other disciplines, is making a big bet on League of Legends. For them, buying a slot in the LCS is not just an expansion, but an opportunity to make a name for themselves in one of the most prestigious esports leagues in the world. It remains a mystery whether sign the current TSM roster or decide to build a new roster from scratch. But one thing is for sure: the league is in for a shake-up, as the emergence of a new tag always brings unexpected changes.

Although the parties do not disclose the exact amount of the deal, insiders share conflicting information. Initially, there were rumors that TSM planned to sell the slot for $20 million – twice the cost of its entry into the league in 2013. However, according to journalist Kellen Browning, Shopify Rebellion bought the spot for a more modest $10 million. Despite this, the deal still looks strategically beneficial for Rebellion, as the LCS remains a key point for brands and sponsors.

An era of change: what happens next?

For esports fans, this is a real turning point. TSM is not just a team; it is an icon, the face, which has inspired millions of fans for a decade. Their departure from the LCS is perceived as a farewell to an era of stability and the beginning of a new era, where new heroes will take the place of familiar favorites.

For Shopify Rebellion, this is a chance to make a statement. The league will get fresh blood, and fans will have the opportunity to see unexpected collaborations and bright starts.

But there are more questions than answers:

• Which region will TSM head to? Perhaps it will be a region where they can challenge the strongest, such as China or South Korea.
• What will be the roster of Shopify Rebellion? Will they bet on proven players or take a risk on newcomers?
• How will the LCS landscape change after such a major transition?

This isn’t the end of TSM’s story, but the beginning of a new one. Perhaps in the coming years we’ll see them triumph Rebellion will become the new favorite of the LCS. One thing is for sure: fans will see something incredible in 2024. The world of esports, as always, does not stand still — and that’s what makes it so exciting.