(Updated: January 2025)
G2 Esports is a powerhouse in the world of professional esports, with a storied history that has seen the team rise to be one of the most successful and dominant organizations in League of Legends. Based in Europe, this organization has left an indelible mark on the League of Legends competitive scene with a legacy of unparalleled domestic success, memorable international performances, and a series of star-studded rosters. Founded in 2014, G2 Esports represents innovation and excellence in esports, and its contributions to professional League of Legends have made it one of the most celebrated teams globally.
History and Formation of G2 Esports
G2 Esports was established on February 24, 2014, by Carlos “ocelote” Rodríguez Santiago, a former professional League of Legends player, and Jens Hilgers, an esports investor. Initially launched under the name Gamers2, the organization rebranded as G2 Esports in 2015, marking the start of its journey as one of the most compelling teams in professional esports.
G2’s founding principles centered around creating a European organization that could rival the world’s best. Under the guidance of Ocelote, the team quickly carved out a reputation for excelling not just in League of Legends but in multiple other titles. The competitive ethos of G2 was apparent from the beginning, setting the stage for their success in numerous domestic and international tournaments.
Domestic Dominance in League of Legends Tournaments
G2 Esports has been synonymous with dominance in European League of Legends. The team entered the EU LCS (now the LEC, League of Legends European Championship) in 2016 and wasted no time making their mark. Their success at the domestic level is unmatched, with multiple championship titles across different seasons.
Key Domestic Achievements
- 2016 Spring and Summer Splits: G2 Esports clinched the titles in both splits in their debut season, making an immediate impact and cementing their position as Europe’s finest.
- 2017 Spring and Summer Splits: Continuing their form, they retained the titles, becoming a pivotal force in the EU LCS.
- 2019 Spring and Summer Splits: This era marked a renaissance for G2 as they revamped their roster to dominate Europe again, defeating Origen and Fnatic to win both splits convincingly.
- 2020 Spring and Summer Splits: G2 Esports carried their dominance into 2020 with victories in the LEC play-offs. Their adaptability and signature role swaps, such as between Caps and Perkz, exemplified their ingenuity.
- 2023 and 2024 Seasons: G2 reemerged as champions by claiming the Winter, Spring, Summer, and Season Finals in both 2023 and 2024, asserting their position as Europe’s most consistent contender.
Memorable Domestic Matches
- In the 2019 Spring Split Finals, G2 defeated Origen in record time, completing a 3-0 sweep in under 75 minutes, which set the record for the fastest series in LEC history.
- Later that year, the 2019 Summer Split Finals against Fnatic proved to be an epic series, with G2 prevailing 3-2 in one of the most closely contested games in European League of Legends history.
International Success and Prestige
While G2 Esports has enjoyed success domestically, their international achievements have further solidified their reputation as one of the greatest League of Legends teams. The team has represented Europe on the global stage with exceptional performances at the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) and the League of Legends World Championship.
Highlights of G2’s International Victories
- 2019 Mid-Season Invitational: In a crowning moment for European League of Legends, G2 secured their first international title by defeating North America’s Team Liquid 3-0 in the finals. This victory marked G2 as the first European team to win an international Riot-sponsored event.
- 2019 League of Legends World Championship: G2 reached the finals of the World Championship after defeating world-class teams like SK Telecom T1 and Damwon Gaming in the knockout stage. Their journey ended with a loss to FunPlus Phoenix, but the achievement cemented G2’s legacy on the world stage.
Other Notable International Results
- In 2020, G2 reached the semifinals of the World Championship but fell to Damwon Gaming, finishing in the 3rd/4th position.
- Regular appearances in the MSI and Worlds tournaments remain a testament to their consistency as an elite-level team.
Current and Past Rosters
The strength of G2 Esports has always been tied to its players. Over the years, the organization has nurtured some of the most talented players in League of Legends, with rosters that excel in synergy and strategy.
Current G2 Esports Roster
As of the latest updates, the team consists of:
- Top Lane: Sergen “BrokenBlade” Çelik (Joined December 3, 2021)
- Jungle: Rudy “SkewMond” Semaan (Joined December 11, 2024)
- Mid Lane: Rasmus “Caps” Winther (Joined May 6, 2020)
- Bot Lane: Steven “Hans Sama” Liv (Joined December 22, 2022)
- Support: Labros “Labrov” Papoutsakis (Joined December 11, 2024)
Legendary Players from G2 Esports
- Perkz: Luka Perković, known for his versatility across mid lane and bot lane roles, was a cornerstone for G2’s success until his departure.
- Mikyx: Mihael Mehle was celebrated for his support role and synergy with G2’s roster.
- Caps and Perkz Role Swap: This innovative switch in roles during the 2020 Spring Split showcased G2’s strategic depth.
- Notable Duos: Wadid and Hjarnan were pivotal in earlier years, entertaining fans with unconventional playstyles.
Key Matches in G2 Esports’ History
The matches that G2 Esports played in pivotal tournaments have contributed to their reputation for resilience and excellence. Here are some standout moments:
- The 2019 MSI Finals showcased G2’s dominance as they crushed Team Liquid 3-0 in the shortest international best-of-five series.
- The 2019 Worlds semifinals where G2 triumphed over SKT T1 remains one of the most iconic upsets in League of Legends history.
For more details on G2 Esports’ historic triumphs and aspirations, visit the officially G2 Esports page.
FAQ – G2 Esports
What is G2 Esports?
G2 Esports is a European professional esports organization renowned for its exceptional success in League of Legends and other titles.
Who founded G2 Esports?
G2 Esports was founded by Carlos “Ocelote” Rodríguez Santiago and Jens Hilgers on February 24, 2014.
When did G2 Esports rebrand?
Initially known as Gamers2, the organization rebranded to G2 Esports in 2015.
Which domestic titles has G2 Esports won?
G2 Esports has numerous domestic titles, including victories in 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, and multiple wins in 2023 and 2024.
What is G2 Esports’ most significant international achievement?
Their biggest milestone was winning the 2019 MSI, becoming the first European team to win a Riot-sponsored international tournament.
Who are the current players for G2 Esports?
The current roster includes BrokenBlade, SkewMond, Caps, Hans Sama, and Labrov.
Which international tournaments has G2 Esports participated in?
G2 Esports has consistently participated in tournaments like MSI and the League of Legends World Championship.
What was G2’s best finish at Worlds?
G2 Esports reached the finals of the 2019 World Championship, finishing as runners-up after losing to FunPlus Phoenix.
Why is Perkz considered iconic for G2 Esports?
Perkz was integral to G2’s success due to his versatility in both mid and bot lane roles and his leadership qualities.
Where can I find more information about G2 Esports?
You can visit their official G2 Esports page to learn more about their history, players, and achievements.
