Suspicions Rise Over China Withdrawing from LoL at ASIAD 2026
Many countries have started announcing their League of Legends rosters for ASIAD, including South Korea and Vietnam. This ASIAD is the last edition where Esports can officially count gold medals for their delegations. However, to the shock of the LoL community, multiple sources worldwide and within China have confirmed that the populous nation will be absent at ASIAD 2026.
This is arguably the biggest surprise for LoL and Esports at ASIAD this year. Currently, China and South Korea are the two strongest LoL nations globally. Although South Korea holds a slight edge, China has been a formidable challenger capable of giving Faker and his teammates a tough time.
Nonetheless, it has been acknowledged that China would face difficulties competing for the gold medal in this discipline. Especially since South Korea’s ASIAD roster includes several players who have repeatedly bested LPL teams on the international stage, centered around the legendary four members of T1 from 2023-2024.
LoL Community Reacts to Unexpected News
Across various social media platforms, the LoL community in Vietnam, internationally, and especially in China, expressed great surprise. Many even believed China had finalized their ASIAD LoL roster long ago and was simply waiting for the right moment to announce it. The disappointment is palpable, but the reasons behind the decision remain undisclosed.
– Truly surprising, I thought China could win gold at ASIAD this year
– The prospect of Knight facing Zeka is gone
– Why though? Does anyone know the reason?
– According to reports, China will only field teams in the four esports they dominate in Asia
Regardless, China’s absence from the LoL event at this ASIAD is both surprising and unfortunate. On the other hand, it clearly opens opportunities for Vietnam’s LoL team to vie for a medal at this Asian Games.
Compiled from Sheep Esports, Weibo, HUPU, Sohu