Buzz
The 'record-breaking' contract that T1 has offered to Faker has truly piqued the interest of the League of Legends community.
In recent days, the League of Legends community has been abuzz with dramas stemming from the LCK region, particularly regarding the transfer of top laner Canna who currently wears the T1 jersey. Despite interventions from Riot Korea and LCK officials, the drama persists.
Setting aside the dramas, one notable aspect of the recent transfer window is Faker's contract. The Demon King has chosen to continue his career with T1. Sources suggest that Faker's contract 'smashes records,' further solidifying his status as a symbol of loyalty in the League of Legends community and esports at large. Additionally, Faker's contract spans one year with an option for a one-year extension, meaning he is committed to T1 until the end of the 2022 season and potentially beyond if his performance remains consistent.
Recently, media outlets from China and South Korea have revealed details about Faker's contract. Allegedly, Faker's salary amounts to around 6 million USD (approximately 7.1 billion won and 136 billion VND) for the 2022 season. In the following year, Faker will have the option to extend his contract (potentially with a salary increase) or retire and become a free agent. Additionally, Chinese media states that T1 will provide Faker with a base salary of 1.9 billion won, supplemented by earnings from advertising contracts, brand rights exploitation, and profit-sharing as a shareholder.
It can be said that Faker's salary is extremely high. Although it falls short of the 40 million USD/3-year offer that Team SoloMid proposed to T1 and Faker not long ago, it is sufficient to elevate Faker to one of the highest-paid esports athletes in the world. However, as T1 CEO Joe Marsh stated, Faker is more than just an esports legend; his influence extends globally, transcending gaming. In South Korea alone, Faker is revered as the 'idol of idols,' an influential figure in the country. This is not to mention the symbol of loyalty he embodies.
At present, T1 finds itself entangled in controversies surrounding the Canna deal and the departure of former stars Cuzz, Teddy, and others. However, with their iconic figure, Faker, still retained, T1 remains fully confident of emerging stronger and securing titles in the new season.
