Popular Esports Personality Ibai Llanos Reportedly Leaving Infinite Reality
After a disappointing season in the LEC, it appears that esports star Ibai Llanos may be ready to pursue new endeavors. According to esports reporter Alejandro Gomis, the popular content creator and KOI co-owner is parting ways with Infinite Reality. While his departure has not been officially announced, Llanos is said to be working on a new project once the announcement is made. It’s worth noting that Llanos is still believed to be the owner of the KOI brand. [source]
Challenging Season for KOI
Infinite Reality is the company that Llanos and fellow KOI co-owner Gerard Piqué joined when KOI merged with Rogue for the 2023 League of Legends season. The addition of KOI to the LEC generated a lot of excitement, but the organization failed to live up to expectations throughout the year. There were high hopes for the team, especially after acquiring a Rogue roster that had just won the LEC championship in the 2022 Summer Split. KOI was also the only Western team to make it to the playoffs at the World Championship. [source]
Financial Troubles and Disappointment
Since the start of the LEC Winter Split, KOI has struggled to perform well, facing early playoff exits and struggling against lower-ranked opponents. This has left fans disappointed and now it seems that the face of the franchise, Ibai Llanos, may be considering leaving the organization. This could be a move to find better opportunities elsewhere. [source]
Financial Issues at Infinite Reality
There have been reports of financial issues at Infinite Reality, with delays in payments to content creators, players, and even KOI’s LEC license. It is said that Llanos had to use his own money, up to three million euros, to cover these payments and also take care of the team’s Academy gaming house. This situation may have further contributed to Llanos’ decision to part ways with the organization. [source]
Ibai Llanos, Infinite Reality, KOI, esports, LEC, League of Legends, financial issues, disappointment