Faker on T1 extension through 2029: “I still have a lot to learn and grow”

T1 mid laner and League of Legends GOAT Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok explained why he chose to renew the contract with T1 for four more years at a press conference held at the CHZZK LoL Park in Seoul.

Faker speaks about the three-peat, his greatest rival in recent times, and his four-year contract with T1

Considered by nearly everyone to be the most successful League of Legends player in the world, Faker continued to build new milestones and accolades for his legacy, winning the world championship for the third consecutive time.

“The process wasn’t easy. I thought it depended on my condition that day,” he said. “Focusing on the process rather than winning or losing was effective. Having a lot of experience in best-of-three matches also helped. Rather than trying not to lose, I tried to do my best even if I lost.” It’s a familiar theme for him: while results do matter at the end, Faker is always focused on making sure his gameplay and condition are at the best possible.

The press conference also saw Faker mention his former teammate Lee “Gumayusi” Min-hyung, who moved over to Hanwha Life Esports in the offseason. When asked about him, Faker credited the ADC player and expressed gratitude: ‘We talked a lot this year. Everything he did for me meant a lot. Lee Min-hyung played a big part in the process of achieving good results. I told him, ‘You worked hard. ‘ I’m not good at expressing myself, so I said that.”

T1 and Faker’s legacy is going to last together for at least another four years, following the contract extension until 2029. The mid laner explained that the team ‘took care of him not only financially but in many other areas’.

I don’t know much because I haven’t been to other teams, but I’m grateful that T1 treats me like they deserve, living up to their reputation as the best team. My goal is to improve as much as possible. If I have to prove something, it has to be to myself. I want to improve in every aspect.”

He also reiterated the importance of self-improvement and self-discipline when talking about his goals: “My goal is to win, but regardless of wins or losses, I want to make the most of what I have. While skill development is a priority, leadership is also important. While I’ve improved compared to before, I still have room for improvement. I will work hard both in and out of the game.”

Life after 2029 and his rivals

The player also answered a question regarding his future after the end of the contract. “I’m curious about that, too. I don’t have a clear plan for my life after retirement. However, I’ve had various experiences while playing professionally. It’s been meaningful to me personally. I don’t know what choice I’ll make, but I think it will be meaningful,” he continued. “My contract is for four years. I think I’ll spend my entire professional career with T1.” Faker also added that he wants to prove “how long a player can last in LoL”.

When asked about his rivals over his 13-year career, Faker mentioned Gen.G’s mid laner, Jeong “Chovy” Ji-hoon, as his latest nemesis:

Recently, it’s ‘Chovy’ Ji-hoon. It was fun from the start, but lately he’s been performing exceptionally well, which motivates me to keep improving.

Asian Games 2026: Korea wants to maintain its crown

2026 also marks an important season for national teams, with the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games taking place in Japan. Having won the gold medal with the national team last time out, Faker expressed himself on the upcoming opportunity:

It would be meaningful to compete. I’ve always wanted to compete. (In 2023), my other teammates worked hard and won the gold medal, and I was honored.

Born in 1996, Faker will be turning 30 next year (in Korean age, he’s already 30). According to him, the reason for his skills despite being among the oldest in the scene is his own motivation: “I’ve redefined defeat rather than feeling frustrated. Defeat becomes the driving force for growth. It doesn’t mean my passion has waned. In that sense, my passion is the same as when I debuted as a pro.”

The Korean mid laner, at the end of the conference, also expressed his gratitude towards the fans: “My behavior certainly played a part in my becoming an icon, but more importantly, it’s the overwhelming support of my fans. That’s why I was able to establish a positive image. It’s my duty and responsibility to cultivate myself with the mindset of repaying my fans.”

Faker and T1 will be competing at the start of the 2026 season during the LCK Cup, which kicks off next month in January.