The fact that "Crown Prince" Gumayusi only signed a 1-year contract with T1 surprised many audiences because he had expressed many times that he wanted to stay with this team for life.

Gumayusi's contract with T1 attracted attention

In the anticipation of T1 fans and closely watched by the world League of Legends community, T1 officially announced that Gumayusi is the next name to renew for the next season. However, there is a "strange" detail: Gumayusi's contract is only valid for 1 year.

Previously, Keria or Oner signed for 2 years. The "Crown Prince" himself has repeatedly affirmed his love for T1. Therefore, when Gumayusi officially stayed until at least the end of 2025, the details of the announced contract became the focus of discussion. Many opinions are confused as to why Gumayusi does not want to stick with T1 longer.

What is the reason for the "strange" contract between T1 and Gumayusi?

First, it must be emphasized that Gumayusi is not the type of player who needs to prove himself further. He came from T1 but has maintained a position in team 1. At the same time, Gumayusi has won 2 consecutive World Championships, 1 LCK, and many other runner-up times. Gumayusi's talent is unquestionable.

Therefore, Gumayusi's rights must be at a higher level than many of his contemporaries or even if placed next to some other superstars, he could also be at a higher rank. Gumayusi has the right to negotiate so that his benefits are commensurate with T1's offers.

Therefore, a contract with a term of 1 year so that he and T1 can review each stage is reasonable. Not only did it help Gumayusi not be tied down, but T1 itself did not have to spend a huge budget to retain the "Crown Prince".

With his close relationship with Faker, it can be understood that the "Demon King" more or less had an impact on Gumayusi's decision. Faker's current contract will be reviewed and renewed each year. Maybe Gumayusi's contract is similar. In a new move, "Crown Prince" has also joined Fanable - Faker's management company. It can be said that Faker is not only a senior but can also be a model for Gumayusi to follow.

Besides, although there is information that T1 is the only team making Esports profitable, money is not just paper. T1 itself also has Zeus to negotiate a contract during this transfer period. There are some comments: "Maybe Gumayusi and T1 have reached an agreement that is beneficial to both sides but T1 can still meet other costs to keep the ZOFGK squad intact."

The T1 squad has attracted more sponsorship sources and increased its reputation in recent Worlds championship years. But no one dares to guarantee that T1 will win Worlds 2025 or hold any title. Therefore, this team must plan for the long haul, both so that the players are not too disadvantaged, while not causing a deficit in the team's budget or violating the LCK salary ceiling.

Furthermore, no one knows the details of Gumayusi's contract. But if he agrees to sign, maybe the "Crown Prince" himself feels it is reasonable. From there, it can be understood that this contract is "strange" but not at all contrary to common sense.