Karmine Corp Acquires Astralis’ Spot in the LEC for 2024 Season
Karmine Corp has officially announced that it will be joining the League of Legends European Championship (LEC) in 2024. The French organization attempted to enter the league in 2022 but was not accepted by Riot Games. However, Karmine Corp’s co-owner, Kamel “Kameto” Kebir, hinted at the possibility of the team’s entry and has now confirmed the news.
Historic Organization Astralis Bids Farewell
Astralis, a team that had been a part of the European league since 2015, is now leaving the LEC. Astralis ventured into the league after acquiring Origen in 2020, but their three-season run was marked by mixed performances. Despite securing second place in the 2023 LEC Spring Groups, they failed to accumulate enough Championship Points to qualify for the LEC Season Finals.
Free Agency for Astralis Players
All players under Astralis will become free agents at the start of the upcoming offseason, as confirmed by Riot. Astralis’ departure from the LEC means that its players are now available for other teams to sign.
Karmine Corp’s Entry and Riot’s Evaluation Process
Karmine Corp had been attempting to join the LEC since last year, but they did not meet all the requirements at the time. The LEC has a thorough evaluation process that includes assessing ownership, brand strength, fandom, business history, objectives, and player development strategies. The selling team, Astralis, had the power to choose the new owner of its spot, while Riot had the final say if the criteria were not met by the new owner.
Karmine Corp will also continue to compete in the French league (LFL) while participating in the LEC. Their LFL roster will serve as an academy team, focusing on developing emerging talents.
With Karmine Corp’s entry into the LEC, fans can anticipate new rivalries and the team’s passionate fan base rising from the ERL landscape to conquer the international competition. This will contribute to the continued growth and success of the league.
Related: Caedrel retires as LEC shoutcaster to focus on future projects, LEC officially introduces salary cap ahead of 2024 season
Karmine Corp, Astralis, LEC, League of Legends, esports