Gaming
Faker named game ambassador for Esports World Cup, Esports Nations Cup through 2028
League of Legends icon joins Cristiano Ronaldo and Magnus Carlsen in Esports Foundation’s ambassador programme
RIYADH: The Esports Foundation has appointed League of Legends legend Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok as game ambassador for the Esports World Cup (EWC) and Esports Nations Cup (ENC) through 2028.
Faker joins football star Cristiano Ronaldo and chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen in the Foundation’s ambassador programme. In his new role, he will represent esports players across international events, athlete initiatives, media engagements and leadership forums.
The Foundation said Faker’s appointment reflects the growing global influence of esports athletes and their role in shaping competitive gaming’s future.
“You can’t talk about esports without mentioning Faker. He is the defining athlete of competitive gaming,” said Ralf Reichert, chief executive officer of the Esports Foundation. “As our game ambassador, Faker represents something fundamental to the Ambassador Program: esports creates its own global sporting icons.”
Faker said the role would allow him to continue representing the global esports community while pursuing titles with T1.
“I want to continue competing for the biggest titles with T1 while representing the players and fans who have helped esports grow worldwide,” he said. “I hope to inspire the next generation to pursue excellence, remain resilient and believe in how far competitive gaming can take them.”
Widely regarded as the greatest League of Legends player of all time, Faker is a six-time World Champion, two-time Mid-Season Invitational champion, 10-time domestic champion and winner of the inaugural Esports World Cup in 2024.
He will return to defend that title this week as part of T1 at the Esports World Cup 2026.
Earlier this year, Faker became the first esports athlete to receive South Korea’s Blue Dragon Medal, the country’s highest sporting honour, recognising his contribution to sport and culture.
The Esports Foundation said Faker will help ensure players have a stronger voice in shaping the future of competitive gaming while inspiring the next generation of esports talent.
