LoL Legend Faker Extends T1 Contract Through 2029 Season
In one of the most unexpected yet celebrated moves in League of Legends history, T1 has announced a massive contract extension for Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok. The living legend of LoL is now locked in with the team until 2029, ensuring he’ll continue to lead T1 through at least the next four competitive seasons.
This extension isn’t just big news, it’s a defining moment for the global LoL scene. At 29 years old, Faker has already built a legacy unmatched in the game’s history. By the time his new contract ends, he’ll be 33, an age rarely seen in pro League play, especially in South Korea, where esports careers often conclude before players turn 30.
Faker's Unmatched Legacy
Faker’s decision to stay with T1 until 2029 doesn’t just reaffirm his loyalty; it’s a clear signal that he still has more to offer. After signing an extension in 2022 that ran through 2025, many assumed his retirement was on the horizon. But instead of slowing down, Faker achieved what few thought possible, leading T1 to back-to-back World Championship wins in 2023 and 2024.
These victories not only boosted his already unmatched status, but also redefined what longevity in professional LoL could look like. Few players manage to maintain their form past their mid-20s, yet Faker continues to compete and dominate at the highest rank.
T1 Remains Strong
The extension comes at a time when T1 is enjoying another strong season. Despite narrowly losing the 2025 Mid-Season Invitational final to Gen.G in a thrilling 3–2 series, T1 bounced back in the LCK and handed Gen.G their first loss in 28 matches. Right after that statement win, T1 announced the news: Faker isn’t going anywhere.
While most Korean pros face mandatory military service by their late 20s, Faker is exempt. His gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games earned him a pass, giving him the freedom to continue boosting T1’s performance without interruption.
In a competitive environment where younger players often push veterans out of the spotlight, Faker’s sustained success shows that age doesn’t have to be a barrier to maintaining top rank in League of Legends.
What About the Rest of the Roster?
While Faker’s future with T1 is now secure, the rest of the roster remains in flux. Toplaner Doran, who joined in early 2025, is only signed through the end of the year. Star ADC Gumayusi is also on a contract that expires at the same time. Jungler Oner and support Keria are under contract until 2026, leaving a window for potential reshuffling in the near future.
Still, given the team’s consistent results and the deep synergy built over years of playing together, further contract renewals wouldn’t be surprising. T1 has every reason to maintain this lineup, both from a performance and branding standpoint. With Faker at the core, the team’s chances of boosting its trophy count are higher than ever.
A Symbol of StabilityIn a game where meta shifts, roster swaps, and burnout are common, Faker’s continued presence brings rare stability to the League of Legends ecosystem. His extension sets a precedent that with dedication, adaptability, and the right team culture, even aging players can remain elite. Whether you’re a casual fan or someone grinding the solo queue ladder hoping to climb the LoL rank system, Faker’s career serves as inspiration. |
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His legacy is a reminder that greatness isn’t just about raw mechanics, it’s about discipline, leadership, and consistency.
As T1 heads into the second half of 2025, expectations are sky-high. With Faker at the helm and more competitive action to come, this could be another season that shapes the future of LoL and further solidifies the GOAT’s place at the top.
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