Karmine Corp, the renowned French powerhouse, has successfully secured a League of Legends EMEA Championship slot. The two-time LFL champion is all set to make its debut in the 2024 LEC Winter Split, joining the ranks of the region’s most prominent teams.
Karmine acquired 66.67% of the LEC slot for approximately $18.2 million. Moreover, the sale will be completed in parts from 2023 to 2025 with Astralis retaining 33.33% of the spot. Karmine Corp can also purchase the remaining 33.33 of the shares from Astralis before the end of 2031.
Karmine Corp’s dominant presence in the EMEA competitive scene is hard to ignore, particularly when you consider that the organization is less than five years old. Established in March 2020 by popular streamers Kamel ‘Kameto’ Kebir and Zouhair ‘Kotei’ Darji, Karmine Corp rapidly rose to prominence in the French league, clinching two LFL regional titles and four EMEA Masters trophies in just three years.
Beyond its competitive success, Karmine Corp also boasts a dedicated French fanbase, notably visible during the 2023 LEC Season Finals at the Sud de France Arena in Montpellier. Often referred to as ‘the blue wall,’ the KC fanbase is unmatched when it comes to showcasing their unwavering support and passion for the organization.
However, as with any new entry into the LEC, there is a farewell to be said, and in this case, it’s Astralis. This Danish organization, formed in 2018 through the acquisition of Origen and undergoing a full rebrand in 2020, officially departs from the LEC after just three years. Astralis’ performance in the league has been a mixed bag, and this year was no exception, as they failed to accrue enough Championship Points to secure a spot in the 2023 LEC Season Finals, likely a significant factor in their departure.
In an official statement, it was mentioned that Astralis’ players will become free agents at the start of the upcoming off-season, which commences after the conclusion of Worlds 2023. Importantly, Karmine Corp’s entry into the LEC does not entail its departure from the LFL. Instead, they will field an academy squad as part of their LFL roster to foster and develop emerging talent.
It’s worth noting that Karmine Corp has been striving to enter the LEC since the previous year but had not met the requirements at that time. According to Riot Games, the LEC meticulously evaluates prospective partnered teams, considering factors like ownership group, brand presence, business history, player development approach, and performance. Based on these criteria, teams can either progress to finalize negotiations or be vetoed.
After failing to make the LEC last year, Karmine will now compete in the league this year with thousands of fans supporting them.
