In the high-stakes world of professional esports, the only constant is change. For Team Liquid, a titan in the League of Legends scene, this truism has once again taken center stage with the departure of long-serving coach Kim `Reignover` Yeu-jin. This move is not merely a personnel adjustment; it signals a profound strategic pivot, charting a new course for the organization as it gears up for the monumental return of the LCS in 2026.
The Architect of Aspirations: Reignover`s Impactful Tenure
Reignover, a name synonymous with intelligent jungle play during his competitive career, transitioned seamlessly into coaching, joining Team Liquid in late 2022. His three-year journey with the North American powerhouse was a tapestry woven with both triumph and trials. Under his guidance, Team Liquid scaled impressive heights, capturing the LCS 2024 Spring title and securing a decisive victory at the LTA 2025 Cross-Conference tournament. The team also consistently proved its mettle on the global stage, making two appearances at the prestigious League of Legends World Championship and achieving a commendable top-four finish at the Esports World Cup 2024.
These were the golden moments, flashes of brilliance that affirmed Team Liquid`s place among the elite. Reignover was more than just a strategist; he was a leader, fostering an environment that saw players push their limits and achieve collective glory. Yet, as is often the case in esports, the shine of past victories can quickly dull in the face of current disappointments.
The Unforgiving Nature of the Gauntlet: Why Change Becomes Inevitable
The decision to part ways, officially announced on October 7th, 2025, follows a recent period of underperformance. The team`s inability to secure a higher than top-six placement in the LTA North Split 3 ultimately meant missing out on the LTA Championship and, critically, a coveted spot at the 2025 League of Legends World Championship. For an organization with Team Liquid`s pedigree and ambitions, this outcome was, simply put, unacceptable. In esports, the margin between hero and history is razor-thin, and the pressure to deliver results is immense. A single missed qualification can trigger an organizational earthquake.
Reignover himself articulated the bittersweet nature of such transitions: «Big love to the fans, players, and coaches who have trusted and supported me over the past three years. My time in Team Liquid has been truly special. It’s been a place where I’ve always wanted to be, enjoying every day with fun, passion and happiness. I will always carry these warm memories.» Such sentiments underscore the human element behind these strategic business decisions – professional necessity often intersects with genuine camaraderie and shared passion.
A Broader Exodus: Team Liquid`s Full Roster Metamorphosis
Reignover`s departure is not an isolated incident but rather the latest, and perhaps most impactful, in a series of significant changes for Team Liquid. The post-Worlds qualification disappointment has instigated a comprehensive overhaul. In September, the steadfast top laner Jeong `Impact` Eon-young, who had returned to the team in 2023, announced his exit. Shortly thereafter, on October 1st, interim Head Coach and Assistant Coach Simon `Swiffer` Papamarkos also moved on. Compounding this period of flux, the contract of legendary support player Jo `CoreJJ` Yong-in is set to expire at the close of 2025, opening the door for even further foundational shifts.
This is not merely a reshuffle; it`s a strategic deconstruction and rebuilding effort. Team Liquid appears to be wiping the slate clean, meticulously searching for the right blend of talent and leadership to reclaim their dominance. The timing is particularly poignant, coinciding with the eagerly anticipated return of the LCS in 2026. This new era for the league demands a formidable contender, and Team Liquid is clearly leaving no stone unturned in its quest to be that team.
The Road Ahead: Building for a Brighter Tomorrow
As the esports industry matures, the cyclical nature of team rosters and coaching staff becomes increasingly apparent. Organizations are in a perpetual state of optimization, forever seeking that elusive «perfect» formula for sustained success. Reignover`s tenure, while ending amidst disappointment, leaves behind a legacy of championships and competitive spirit. His departure, alongside other key personnel, marks the end of an era and the commencement of another.
Team Liquid`s management now faces the challenging, yet exhilarating, task of identifying and integrating new talent to forge a roster capable of conquering the challenges of 2026 and beyond. The esports world watches with bated breath, eager to see what new constellation of stars will emerge to carry the Team Liquid banner forward into what promises to be an intensely competitive future.
The quest for ultimate glory in League of Legends is relentless, and for Team Liquid, the pursuit continues, renewed and re-envisioned.
Elton Marrow