FunPlusPhoenix Departs LPL as League Restructures
The League of Legends Professional League (LPL) is undergoing significant changes, with FunPlusPhoenix (FPX) officially stepping away from the competition. This move follows the LPL’s decision to repurchase FPX’s franchise slot, marking the organization’s departure from the Chinese esports scene.
FPX Bids Farewell to LPL
According to an official statement, FPX will no longer participate in LPL and associated events starting January 1, 2026. The organization’s exit aligns with the league’s broader restructuring efforts, which aim to streamline the number of participating teams. Although FPX’s departure was anticipated by the end of 2024, Rare Atom ended up leaving first. FPX’s exit marks a significant moment for the LPL, as the team was one of the few Chinese organizations to claim the League of Legends World Championship. The team’s pinnacle came in 2019 when they triumphed over G2 Esports in the finals held in Paris.
However, in recent years, FPX struggled to replicate those successes, losing key players like Kim ‘Doinb’ Tae-sang and Gao ‘Tian’ Tian-Liang. Their most notable recent achievement was securing a top-eight finish in the LPL Split 2.
Anticipated Exits from the LPL
Another titanic shift could be on the horizon as Royal Never Give Up (RNG) is also rumored to leave the LPL. Known for multiple MSI title wins and housing legendary ADC Jian ‘Uzi’ Zihao, RNG’s exit would be another blow to the league. As of now, no official confirmation has been provided regarding RNG’s status.
The LPL is undertaking major organizational changes due to underperformance on the international stage and waning audience engagement. Reports suggest the league will introduce a new auction system for free agents and implement a salary cap to regulate team expenditures.