There may be changes on the horizon for the LEC as Rogue is exploring the possibility of selling their franchised spot, with multiple parties engaging in discussions with the organization.
Image Credit: Michal Konkol/Riot Games
Falcons emerge as leading contender to acquire Rogue’s LEC spot
According to a report from Sheep Esports, Rogue’s parent company, Infinite Reality, has initiated talks with other teams regarding the potential sale of the franchise slot. While no deal has been finalized yet, discussions are ongoing.
Team Falcons, a Saudi Arabian team, is said to be one of the frontrunners in acquiring the slot. The team has a presence in various major game titles like Rocket League and Counter-Strike 2. Their previous attempt to acquire Astralis’ slot in 2022 was thwarted by Riot Games, with the slot eventually being sold to Karmine Corp the following year.
Negotiations commenced last year
Reports suggest that Team Falcons had previously engaged in discussions with Rogue after their separation from KOI at the end of last year, but the deal fell through due to complications with Riot Games. With Saudi Arabia making strides in Esports with the Esports World Cup and significant investments in various ecosystems, the outcome this time remains uncertain.
Team Falcons, however, are not the sole contenders for the slot. A key concern is the valuation of the franchise slot, given the fluctuating viewership. In the past, Astralis’ slot was valued at 26 million euros in October 2023. Prior to that, Team Heretics acquired a majority stake in the slot previously held by Misfits Gaming, valued at around 45 million euros.
Sheep Esports disclosed that Rogue would prefer a cash deal rather than equity. Over the years, Rogue has scaled back its presence in various esports titles, including letting go of their Rocket League roster and allowing Fnatic to take over their Rainbow Six Siege slot. Presently, Infinite Reality only retains ownership of the LEC slot and the Carolina Royal Ravens in the CDL.
Once a top contender in the LEC, Rogue has faced challenges in maintaining their performance levels since merging with KOI. The team’s failure to qualify for the LEC Season Finals this year, following a bottom-place finish in the LEC summer split, has raised concerns about their future prospects.
