League of Legends Worlds is a huge deal, and over the years, we’ve seen some amazing teams lift the Summoner’s Cup. It’s been a wild ride, with different regions stepping up and showing everyone what they’re made of. From the early days to the current scene, the lol worlds winners tell a story of skill, strategy, and pure determination. Let’s take a look back at all the teams that have made it to the very top.
Key Takeaways
- T1, with star player Faker, holds the record for the most Worlds titles, winning five championships.
- The LCK (Korea) has historically dominated the tournament, securing the most titles overall.
- The LPL (China) has emerged as a major force, with teams like Invictus Gaming, FunPlus Phoenix, and Edward Gaming claiming victories.
- Fnatic secured the first-ever Worlds title in 2011, marking the beginning of the tournament’s history.
- The Worlds finals have seen record-breaking viewership, highlighting the massive global popularity of League of Legends esports.
The Inaugural Champions and Early Dominance
The very beginning of the League of Legends World Championship was a wild ride, setting the stage for everything that followed. Back in 2011, the first-ever tournament was held at DreamHack in Sweden. It was a bit chaotic, honestly. Fnatic, a European team, ended up taking the whole thing. Their star player, xPeke, even missed the group stage because his flight was delayed, and they had to bring in an audience member to play for them! Despite that rocky start, they pulled it together and won the finals against a French team called aAa, 2-1. It showed that even with unexpected hurdles, a team could still come out on top.
Then came 2012, and the tournament really started to grow. It moved to Los Angeles and had a much bigger prize pool. This time, it was the Taipei Assassins from Taiwan who surprised everyone. They weren’t the favorites, but they played with incredible teamwork and smart strategies. They beat some really strong teams, including a Korean squad called Azubu Frost in the finals, winning 3-1. Their midlaner, Toyz, was amazing, especially on Orianna. This win was huge because it proved that good strategy and playing together could beat even the most skilled individual players, changing how people thought about competitive League of Legends.
Here’s a quick look at the early champions:
| Year | Winner |
|---|---|
| 2011 | Fnatic (EU) |
| 2012 | Taipei Assassins (LMS) |
These early tournaments were important because they showed the world that League of Legends esports was here to stay and that different regions could compete at the highest level.
The Rise of Korean Hegemony
After the initial burst of international competition, a clear pattern began to emerge: South Korea was establishing itself as the dominant force in League of Legends. This era saw teams from the League of Legends Champions Korea (LCK) consistently reach the finals and lift the Summoner’s Cup, setting a benchmark for global performance.
SK Telecom T1’s First World Championship in 2013
The journey of Korean dominance truly began in 2013. SK Telecom T1, a team that would become synonymous with success, claimed their first World Championship title. They faced Royal Club from China in the grand finals and secured a decisive 3-0 victory. This win wasn’t just a trophy; it was a statement. SKT showcased incredible teamwork and individual skill, laying the groundwork for their future dynasty. Their performance highlighted a level of strategic depth and mechanical precision that set them apart.
Samsung White’s Dominance in 2014
South Korea’s reign continued in 2014 with Samsung White. The tournament, held in Asia for the first time, culminated in a grand final at the Seoul World Cup Stadium. Samsung White, entering as the third seed from Korea, proved everyone wrong by systematically dismantling their opponents. They reached the finals after defeating their domestic rivals, Samsung Blue, in the semifinals. In the final match against China’s Star Horn Royal Club, Samsung White delivered a powerful 3-1 performance. Their aggressive early-game plays and superior map control were hallmarks of their championship run, solidifying Korea’s grip on the title.
SK Telecom T1’s Second Title in 2015
Returning to Europe for the 2015 World Championship, SK Telecom T1 once again proved why they were the team to beat. After a period where European and North American teams showed promise, Korea reasserted its authority. SKT, led by the legendary Faker, faced fellow Korean team KOO Tigers in the finals. SKT emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline, becoming the first organization to win two World Championships. Their consistent performance throughout the tournament, dropping only one game, demonstrated their resilience and adaptability.
SK Telecom T1 Secures a Three-Peat in 2016
The year 2016 cemented SK Telecom T1’s status as a legendary dynasty. They achieved an unprecedented feat by winning their third World Championship, and importantly, becoming the first team to win back-to-back titles. The tournament was filled with exciting matches, including a memorable semifinal clash between SKT and ROX Tigers, often cited as one of the greatest series in esports history. In the grand finals, SKT faced Samsung Galaxy in a thrilling five-game series. Despite Samsung Galaxy mounting a comeback after being down 0-2, SKT’s experience and clutch plays, particularly from Faker, secured them the victory. This win marked their second consecutive title and their third overall, a record that stood for years.
Shifting Tides and New Challengers
The League of Legends World Championship landscape saw significant shifts in the years following Korea’s initial dominance. Teams from other regions began to challenge the established order, leading to exciting new champions and narratives.
Samsung Galaxy’s Upset Victory in 2017
In 2017, the tournament returned to China, and it was Samsung Galaxy who emerged victorious. They defeated the highly favored SK Telecom T1 in a thrilling final. This win marked a significant achievement for the team and showed that the gap between regions was closing.
Invictus Gaming Breaks Korea’s Streak in 2018
The 2018 World Championship, held in South Korea, witnessed a historic moment as Invictus Gaming from China claimed the title. They triumphed over Fnatic in the finals, becoming the first Chinese team to win the Summoner’s Cup. This victory was a major upset and signaled the rise of the LPL as a global powerhouse.
FunPlus Phoenix Claims the Summoner’s Cup in 2019
Following IG’s success, another Chinese team, FunPlus Phoenix (FPX), continued the LPL’s momentum by winning the 2019 World Championship in Europe. Their dominant performance throughout the tournament solidified China’s position as a top contender in the global scene.
The Evolving Landscape of Global Competition
The League of Legends competitive scene has seen significant shifts and the emergence of new powerhouses over the years. While certain regions have historically dominated, the global stage is constantly being reshaped by emerging talent and evolving strategies. This period marks a time when the established order was challenged, and new contenders rose to claim their place in history.
DAMWON Gaming’s Championship in 2020
In 2020, DAMWON Gaming from the LCK (Korea) made a strong statement by winning the World Championship. They showcased a dominant performance throughout the tournament, culminating in a decisive victory that highlighted the continued strength of Korean teams. Their win was a testament to their structured gameplay and individual skill.
Edward Gaming’s Triumph in 2021
The 2021 World Championship saw Edward Gaming (EDG) from the LPL (China) lift the Summoner’s Cup. This victory was particularly notable as it marked a significant achievement for the LPL, demonstrating their growing prowess on the international stage. EDG’s journey through the tournament was filled with intense matches, ultimately proving their mettle against the world’s best.
DRX’s Unexpected Win in 2022
Perhaps one of the most talked-about victories in recent history, DRX, also from the LCK, secured the championship in 2022. Their path to the title was an underdog story, marked by incredible resilience and clutch performances in critical moments. They overcame significant odds, including a lower bracket run, to claim the championship, proving that determination can overcome expectations.
The 2022 World Championship was a clear indicator that while established regions remain strong, the gap between top teams is narrowing. Unexpected runs and strong performances from various regions signal a more dynamic and unpredictable future for the competition.
Here’s a look at the recent champions:
| Year | Champion |
|---|---|
| 2020 | DAMWON Gaming |
| 2021 | Edward Gaming |
| 2022 | DRX |
The Era of T1’s Continued Success
After a period of intense competition and shifting power dynamics, T1 has re-established itself as a dominant force in the League of Legends esports scene. This era is marked by their remarkable resurgence and a string of victories that have solidified their legacy.
T1’s Resurgence and Victory in 2023
The 2023 World Championship, held in South Korea, was a testament to T1’s resilience. After a disappointing finals loss the previous year, the team entered the tournament with a clear mission: to reclaim the Summoner’s Cup. Utilizing the new Swiss-system format, T1 steadily advanced through the stages. They demonstrated exceptional performance in the knockout phase, dismantling strong opponents like LNG Esports and the heavily favored JD Gaming. A legendary play by Faker on Azir in their series against JD Gaming is often cited as a turning point, shifting the momentum and showcasing the team’s clutch factor. The finals saw T1 face Weibo Gaming from the LPL. In a decisive grand final, T1 secured a clean 3-0 victory, marking Faker’s fourth World Championship title and bringing the trophy home to Korea. Choi "Zeus" Woo-je was awarded the Finals MVP for his outstanding performance.
T1’s Record-Breaking Fifth Title in 2024
Building on their 2023 success, T1 continued their winning streak into the 2024 season, achieving an unprecedented fifth World Championship title. This victory was particularly historic as it marked the first time a five-man roster secured two consecutive World Championships. T1’s dominance was evident throughout the tournament, as they remained undefeated against LPL teams in the playoffs. Their journey to the finals included reaching three consecutive World Championship finals, a feat previously achieved between 2015-2017. Faker further cemented his status as the greatest player in League of Legends history, participating in all five of T1’s championship wins and becoming the oldest player to win a World title at 28. He was also named MVP of the final against Bilibili Gaming, adding another accolade to his illustrious career. During this championship run, Faker also achieved significant milestones, including over 100 career kills at Worlds.
Here’s a look at T1’s championship roster:
| Year | Championship | Key Players |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | World Championship | Faker, Impact, Piglet, Bengi, PoohManDu |
| 2015 | World Championship | Faker, Marin, Bang, Wolf, Bengi, Easyhoon |
| 2016 | World Championship | Faker, Duke, Bang, Wolf, Bengi, Blank |
| 2023 | World Championship | Faker, Zeus, Gumayusi, Oner, Keria |
| 2024 | World Championship | Faker, Zeus, Gumayusi, Oner, Keria |
Regional Powerhouses and Their World Championship Contributions
When we look at the history of the League of Legends World Championship, certain regions just stand out. It’s not just about who wins, but also about the consistent presence and the impact these regions have had on the game’s biggest stage.
LCK Teams: A Legacy of Champions
The South Korean league, the LCK, has a history that’s hard to ignore. They’ve been the dominant force for a long time, racking up a significant number of titles. It’s like they set the standard for how to play the game at the highest level. Their teams are known for their strong mechanics, smart decision-making, and a deep understanding of the game’s flow.
Here’s a quick look at their success:
- LCK Titles: 9
- Runner-up Finishes: 6
- Total Finals Appearances: 15
Teams like SK Telecom T1 (now T1) and Samsung Galaxy have been at the forefront of this dominance, with T1 alone holding multiple championships. Their consistent performance shows a dedication to excellence that’s pretty remarkable.
LPL Teams: Ascending to Global Prominence
On the other side, we have the LPL from China. They’ve really made their mark in recent years, challenging the LCK’s long-held top spot. The LPL is often associated with a more aggressive, fast-paced style of play. Their teams aren’t afraid to take risks, and when they hit their stride, they can be incredibly exciting to watch.
Their achievements include:
- LPL Titles: 3
- Runner-up Finishes: 5
- Total Finals Appearances: 8
Invictus Gaming and FunPlus Phoenix were key teams that brought championships to the LPL, showing that the region was ready to compete for the Summoner’s Cup on a global scale. Edward Gaming also added to their trophy cabinet, further cementing the LPL’s status.
EMEA and PCS: Notable Victories
While the LCK and LPL have seen the most success, other regions have also had their moments of glory. Europe, represented by the LEC (formerly LCS EU), has one World Championship title, won by Fnatic back in the very first tournament in 2011. They’ve also reached the finals a few times since then, showing they can compete with the best.
- EMEA Titles: 1
- Runner-up Finishes: 3
- Total Finals Appearances: 4
The PCS (Pacific Championship Series), formerly LMS, also has a World Championship title to its name, with the Taipei Assassins taking the crown in 2012. These victories, though fewer in number, are significant as they represent the diversity of talent and the global reach of competitive League of Legends. They prove that any region can rise to the top with the right team and the right performance on the day.
The history of Worlds is a story of regional evolution, with different playstyles and strategies emerging from various parts of the world. While Korea has historically led, the rise of China and the persistent challenge from Europe demonstrate a constantly shifting competitive landscape.
The Legacy of the Summoner’s Cup
Looking back at all the teams and players who have lifted the Summoner’s Cup, it’s clear that the League of Legends World Championship has a rich history. From Fnatic’s surprise win in the very first tournament to the recent triumphs, each year adds another chapter to this ongoing story. We’ve seen dynasties rise and fall, new regions emerge as powerhouses, and individual players etch their names into legend, most notably Faker with his multiple titles. The competition continues to grow, with new contenders always on the horizon, promising even more exciting moments and unforgettable performances in the years to come. It’s a testament to the game’s enduring appeal and the dedication of its global community.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the League of Legends World Championship start?
The first League of Legends World Championship happened in 2011. A team from Europe called Fnatic won that year. It was the start of a big esports event that continues today.
Which region has won the most World Championships?
South Korea, with its LCK league, has been the most successful region. Teams from Korea have won the championship many times, showing their skill and dedication to the game.
Who is the most famous League of Legends player?
Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok is widely considered the best player ever. He has won the World Championship multiple times with his team, T1, and is known for his amazing gameplay.
Is the League of Legends World Championship popular?
Yes, the popularity of the League of Legends World Championship has grown a lot. Millions of people watch the finals every year, making it one of the biggest esports events in the world.
What is the name of the trophy awarded to the winner?
The championship trophy is called the Summoner’s Cup. It’s a special award given to the winning team, and it’s quite heavy, weighing around 20 kilograms!
Which regions compete in the World Championship?
Teams from different parts of the world compete, including Europe (LEC), China (LPL), South Korea (LCK), and others. Each region brings its own style and talent to the tournament.
