Summary
- Sentinels are officially joining LoL in LCS 2026, replacing 100 Thieves, who are exiting by the end of the 2025 season.
- There is no franchising fee for Sentinels as they are selected to be part of the League’s rebranding efforts.
- The organization was previously known as Phoenix1 in the NA LCS from 2016 to 2017.
After some years, Sentinels are returning to the competitive League of Legends (LoL) scene by joining the LCS 2026. According to insiders, Sentinel will replace the 100 Thieves, following the organization’s exit from the competitive scene. Sentinels previously competed in the NA LCS under Phoenix1 way back in 2026 to 2017. So far, here’s everything to know about their return!
Sentinels Replaces 100 Thieves in LCS Roster Shake-Up
One door may close, but another opens in the LCS 2026. While 100 Thieves announced their unfortunate departure from the league after the 2025 season, Sentinels are looking to fill the empty spot. The timing seems on track with the recent structural changes in LCS, where Riot plans a rebrand of the league.
Now, what makes this move noteworthy is that Riot Games has chosen to waive the franchise fee requirement for Sentinels. This decision came from the publisher’s confidence in the organization and its effort to bring established brands into the league. 100 Thieves returned to LCS in 2025 as a provisional guest team after selling their spot back to Riot.
From Phoenix1 to Sentinels: A Full-Circle Moment
Sentinels aren’t just a new organization that is joining the league. They previously competed in NA LCS through 2017, making them familiar to long-time LoL fans. The team officially rebranded in June 2018 and is currently based in Los Angeles.
The organization shifted its focus away from the league, but built its name as one of the recognizable brands in NA esports. Particularly in VALORANT, where they achieved immense success. Their Valorant team captured two international Masters titles and established itself as a dominant force.
Beyond VALORANT, Sentinels also ventured into Apex Legends, Halo, and recently Marvel Rivals. With them rejoining the League, it further diversifies their portfolio as a brand in the esports scene.
Strong Business Growth Signals Sustainable Future
Nowadays, financial stability has become important in the evolving esports landscape, which the Sentinels have. In 2014, the organization nearly doubled its sales from $2.9 million to $5.7 million. Further, they had high-value partnerships with major brands such as Red Bull and Razer.
CEO Rob Moore emphasized they are keen on building a sustainable long-term business model rather than rapid expansion at any cost. Looking at trends between major esports organizations, there is evident prioritizing of profitability and sustainable revenue streams. Sentinels look for a balance between financial responsibility and competitive ambition as a foundation for their return.
What’s Next: Roster Building and Multi-Year Commitment
Earlier in 2025, Sentinels already gave hints of their supposed return to the LoL esports scene. With their Sheep Esports interview in 2025, Sentinels confirmed a potential comeback in the league. The guest team system allows a low-risk entry point; however, the organization is also exploring opportunities in Counter-Strike 2.
For now, the exact terms of their LCS participation remain unconfirmed. But sources suggest that it may be a multi-year commitment, similar to Riot’s partnership in Valorant Champions Tour. So, Sentinels may be making a serious, long-term investment in the league rather than testing the waters with a temporary stint.
Also, no players have officially signed yet, leaving the organization still in the scouting process. More so, they are noted to make appearances in the player market as part of recruitment. They are looking to build a lineup that can make an immediate impact and compete at the highest level.
Conclusion: A New Era for North American LoL
Now, Sentinels gear up to join the LoL esports scene by making an entry in LCS 2026. So far, they haven’t confirmed any specifics about the terms of their participation or roster. But insiders report they will replace 100 Thieves and are scouting competitive players already.
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