100 Thieves has announced its departure from the League of Legends Championship of the Americas (LTA) after the 2025 season. This marks the end of an eight-year journey for the team, which has been a prominent name in North American competitive gaming since 2018. Riot Games has chosen a new partner to take over the franchise slot starting in the 2026 season, signaling a significant shift in the region’s esports landscape.
100 Thieves Ends League of Legends Run Post-2025 Season
After years of competitive presence, 100 Thieves confirmed they will step away from League of Legends following the conclusion of the 2025 LTA season. The team wrapped up the season with mixed results, including a victory in LTA North Split 1, a second-place finish in the Cross-Conference, and a fifth-place spot in LTA North Split 2 after a defeat by Shopify Rebellion.
- Victory in LTA North Split 1
- Second place in LTA 2025 Cross-Conference
- Fifth place after 0-3 loss in LTA North Split 2
In 2024, the organization sold its permanent franchise slot in the League Championship Series (LCS), moving to a provisional guest team status for 2025. Riot Games had communicated that this was a temporary arrangement while a long-term partner search was underway for the 2026 season.
Strategic Business Decisions and Riot Games’ Role
100 Thieves attributed their departure to strategic business decisions and evolving organizational priorities. Accepting Riot Games’ invitation to occupy a provisional slot in 2025 reflected the transition phase before handing over the slot to a new partner. Riot Games’ choice underscores their commitment to fostering sustainable partnerships within the League of Legends esports ecosystem.
- Sale of permanent LCS franchise slot in 2024
- Temporary Provisional Guest Team status for 2025
- Riot Games selects new partner for 2026 onward
This change highlights Riot Games’ active role in shaping the future of competitive gaming and the importance of aligning with partners who fit long-term visions for fan engagement and league growth.
100 Thieves’ Legacy in League of Legends Esports
Since entering the competitive League of Legends scene in 2018, 100 Thieves has been synonymous with excellence in North American esports. Their journey includes notable achievements such as winning the LCS Spring Split in 2021 and consistent appearances in finals during their early years.
- Qualified for LCS Finals in inaugural split
- Multiple LCS finals appearances
- Spring Split champions in 2021
- Supported ambitious amateur esports programs
Despite a strong start, recent years saw the team facing challenges, with less consistent results in the league. 100 Thieves remain proud of their contribution to advancing competitive gaming and growing their fanbase across multiple titles beyond League of Legends, including VALORANT and Call of Duty.
Community and Staff Reflections
Esteemed League of Legends figure Chris “PapaSmithy” Smith reflected on 100 Thieves’ departure as a culmination of changing organizational priorities. He noted the team still houses talented staff and players committed to competitive success despite the transition.
- Leadership’s evolving priorities over years
- Continuing efforts to compete strongly in LTA
- Staff and players likely to add value to future teams
This exit represents both a loss and an opportunity within the North American League of Legends esports ecosystem, impacting fans and stakeholders alike.
Future of the League Slot and Competitive Landscape
The precise identity of Riot Games’ new partner taking over the 100 Thieves LCS franchise slot is not yet confirmed. Rumors have pointed to organizations such as OpTic Gaming or Sentinels, though official announcements remain pending.
- Riot Games finalizing new franchise partner for 2026
- Potential candidates: OpTic, Sentinels
- Transition marks a new chapter for LTA North Conference
This upcoming change reflects Riot Games’ ongoing efforts to innovate in game development and reinforce competitive gaming’s appeal to diverse audiences.