LCSEMEACNJanuary 9, 2026Key Roster Moves in APAC and NA as Teams Gear Up for 2026
TL;DR
MVK, DFM, and GZ make strategic roster decisions to strengthen their lineups for upcoming tournaments. Key players and staff receive extensions, indicating long-term commitments.
January 9 saw key roster announcements across APAC and NA as teams locked in talent for 2026. MVK retains its core lineup with top laner Kratos, jungler Gury, mid laner Kati, support SiuLoong, and analyst Suga each securing contracts through 2026. This decision reflects a strategy of stability, potentially providing a competitive edge.
In APAC, DFM announced significant changes. The team extended contracts for top laner Momo, jungler Citrus, mid laner Keine, bot laner Kakkun, and support Gaeng, all committed until November 2026. Keine's promotion from DFM.A to DFM's main roster adds fresh dynamics, while Paz steps up as head coach from his former assistant role.
GZ also fortified their roster by securing key players like jungler Husha, mid laner JimieN, bot laner Shunn, and support Orca, with contracts stretching to late 2026. This quartet aims to build on past successes as they eye future tournaments.
These moves highlight a trend of teams investing in stability and internal development, betting on existing talent to drive success in the 2026 competitive season.
