Shopify buys the TSM LCS slot

Shopify Rebels has officially secured its place as the new organization in the LCS, having acquired TSM's LCS spot and taken over their LCS roster contracts for the offseason. This marks a significant shift in the LCS landscape, given TSM's integral role in the region and the LCS since the inception of the NA LCS.

Shopify, recognized for its presence in various esports titles, including StarCraft 2, Rocket League, Valorant, Halo, Street Fighter 6, Dota, and League of Legends, has experienced rapid growth since entering the esports scene in 2021. With a passionate community and competitive teams across multiple titles, Shopify has positioned itself as a formidable force in the gaming world.

Jeremy Steeves, the General Manager of Shopify Rebellion, and Dario Wünschm, the esports program development lead, expressed their thoughts on the organization's entry into the LCS. Both shared:

“Our goal for the LCS is to build an organization that can challenge the best teams in the world for championships. That's really the measuring stick for any of our programs. Having said that, we're not blind to how difficult that is to do, but we're willing to learn, adapt, and invest in making that happen as we grow."
"As for the LCS itself, we're excited to be here. We're not ignorant to some of the challenges the LCS faces as a league, but we also know how deeply Riot Games invests in their esports, and I think it's on us to execute our long-term vision in the space.
"In the end, I hope that we can be a force not just in the LCS, but for the LCS.”

The contracts of the now former TSM players will be transferred to Shopify Rebellion. Decisions on roster changes for the old TSM roster during the 2024 offseason will be in the hands of Shopify Rebellion.

TSM's departure from the LCS stage leaves a void for fans who have long supported the organization. As a fan favorite since the inception of the LCS, TSM's absence marks the end of an era. However, Shopify's acquisition introduces a new chapter, offering fans the prospect of a fresh and exciting era in North American League of Legends esports.

Anticipation builds as Shopify makes its debut in the LCS during the 2024 Spring Split, competing for the coveted championship title. The LCS stage is set for thrilling clashes and intense competition as Shopify aims to establish its legacy in the North American esports scene with this strategic acquisition. We welcome Shopify Rebellion to the LCS and wish them good luck next year and this offseason!