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Cloud9 Returns to Worlds After Three Years
20 Sep, 2026, 00:34
|Last updated: 20 Sep, 2026, 00:34
After three years, Cloud9 is back at the League of Legends Worlds Championship, becoming the first team from the LCS to qualify for the 2026 edition after defeating LYON. With this victory, they have also secured a spot in the Upper Bracket of the 2026 LCS Summer Split.
C9 Wins Against All Odds
For several years, the organization has tried to find its footing in the region, failing to secure international qualification since the 2023 edition of the Worlds, where they were eliminated in the early stages.
After going through various roster and coaching staff changes, Cloud9 finally found the formula they were looking for.
In the Playoffs, LYON chose Cloud9 as their opponents, a decision they may now regret. In an intense and chaotic series, Cloud9 established their dominance from the early stages, although they faced difficulties on the second map, which went in LYON's favor.
Still, Cloud9 showcased the work they have been putting in, bringing distinctive composition throughout the series and closing out the deciding game in just 25 minutes.
With this victory, they have also secured a spot at Worlds 2026, set to take place in the United States. As for LYON, they will now drop to the Lower Bracket and continue their Playoffs run from there.
International debuts
Park "Thanatos" Seung-gyu was the MVP of the series, with the victory marking a new beginning in the Korean player's career as he prepares for his first international appearance.
In fact, this will be a debut for both of Cloud9's Korean players, as Lee "Loki" Sang-min will also experience his first international tournament.
Cloud9 is now guaranteed a top-three finish in the 2026 LCS Summer Split, with their final placement determining their seeding for Worlds 2026.
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Featured Image Credits: Heaven Wolf // Riot Games
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