Gumayusi Leaves T1 After Seven Years, Reportedly Set to Join Hanwha Life Esports

T1’s legendary bot laner Lee “Gumayusi” Min-hyeong has officially parted ways with the organization after seven years, just days after winning the Worlds 2025 championship. With the offseason now underway, reports indicate that Gumayusi is expected to join Hanwha Life Esports for the LCK 2026 season—marking one of the biggest roster moves of the year.

Gumayusi Leaves T1 After Winning Worlds 2025

The move stunned the global League of Legends community. T1 confirmed his departure shortly after securing the organization’s fourth consecutive world title—and Gumayusi’s third.

“The trophies we lifted together and the legacy he built will always be a proud part of our history and in the hearts of our fans,” T1 said in its official statement.

Over his seven-year tenure, Gumayusi achieved:

• 3× World Championship titles

• 1× LCK Championship (2022)

• Multiple international finals appearances

• Recognition as one of the best mechanical ADCs in the world
  

However, the 2025 season brought challenges. Gumayusi was benched in favor of academy rookie Shin “Smash” Geum-jae, a move that raised eyebrows across the LCK. Even after being reinstated by T1’s ownership, the team struggled, nearly missing Worlds 2025.

When it mattered most, though, the bot laner delivered. Gumayusi produced one of his strongest international performances to date and earned the Worlds 2025 Finals MVP against KT Rolster.

“Thank You, Gumayusi” — A Farewell Message

In a heartfelt video posted on T1’s YouTube channel, the star ADC addressed fans:

“This news may feel disappointing, but I will always remain Gumayusi. I hope you continue supporting me until the very end.”

The message closed an era that began in 2019 and helped define T1’s modern dynasty.

Gumayusi’s Next Destination: Hanwha Life Esports?

Although not officially confirmed, multiple reports suggest that Gumayusi will sign with Hanwha Life Esports.If finalized, this move would mirror last year’s shock transfer when HLE acquired T1’s star top laner Choi “Zeus” Woo-je.

HLE’s growing “superteam” ambitions make Gumayusi’s addition a massive competitive and branding boost.

T1’s New Bot Laner for 2026

With Gumayusi leaving, T1 is reportedly set to replace him with Kim “Peyz” Su-hwan, who is expected to return to Korea after a difficult stint in China’s LPL.

Peyz previously rose to prominence with Gen.G, earning praise as one of the strongest young ADC talents in the world. His arrival would mark a fresh era for T1’s bot lane heading into the LCK 2026 season.