T1 continues to dominate a key category in LCK 2026 Rounds 1-2 group stage
In the world of LoL, if you had to name the team with the greatest reputation and largest fan base, the first name that likely comes to mind is T1. Thanks to their rich tradition, numerous titles, and especially having Faker, T1 remains the most attention-grabbing team in the entire LoL scene with no one yet replacing them. Even with a somewhat inconsistent phase like in the LCK 2026 Rounds 1-2 group stage recently, T1 still absolutely dominated the highest peak viewership numbers, according to Esports Charts.
Specifically, the top 5 matches with the highest peak viewership during the recent group stage all featured T1. The two matches with the absolute highest peaks were T1’s clashes against their two “archrivals” Gen.G and HLE, recording peak views of 1.299 million and 1.251 million respectively. This viewership accurately reflects T1’s stature and influence, amplified by the fact that their opponents are also major “view magnets” in the LoL scene like Gen.G and HLE.
But T1’s milestone also raises new concerns
The reality is, as long as T1 still has current players, especially Faker, they will remain the team with the highest viewership in LCK. However, in the future, when Faker gradually steps back or even ends his contract in 2029 (when he will be 33 years old) and leaves T1, it is predicted that LCK and the entire LoL scene could face a crisis.
Therefore, while T1’s very high viewership numbers and overwhelming attention are positive signs, perhaps it is T1 itself, not just LCK or LoL, that must start planning for the distant future when Faker is forced to retire from professional LoL play.