(Updated: January 2025)
MAD Lions KOI has established itself as one of the most notable entities in the European League of Legends scene, showcasing a rich history, consistent evolution, and remarkable achievements. Since its inception in 2017, MAD Lions has faced numerous challenges, grown through roster changes, and cemented its place as a competitive powerhouse. With a definitive merger under the Movistar KOI brand in December 2024, the team is steering into a new era, blending legacy and ambition. Let’s dive deep into the history, roster transformations, and significant highlights that define MAD Lions KOI.
History of MAD Lions KOI – Evolution of a Competitive Esports Giant
Formation and Early Years (2017-2019)
MAD Lions was founded on August 31, 2017, by Jorge Schnura and Marcos Eguillor with the intent of competing in the Spanish professional League of Legends scene. The team began making waves right from its debut by winning the ESL Masters 2017: Madrid. This victory included a €4,000 prize pool and featured a skilled roster comprising Werlyb, Selfmade, Nemesis, Jesklaaa, and Falco.
The Spanish scene proved to be fertile ground for MAD Lions, as they dominated local and regional competitions over the next few years. Their success included a victory in the 2018 Summer European Masters, the 15th LVP Superliga season, and the 2018 Iberian Cup, firmly establishing the team as a rising star in European esports.
Acquisition and Rebranding Phase (2019)
In May 2019, MAD Lions was acquired by OverActive Media, an organization that also owned the LEC team Splyce. By the end of 2019, Splyce’s League of Legends team was dissolved, and its roster was handed over to the MAD Lions banner. Meanwhile, the original MAD Lions roster transitioned to MAD Lions Madrid, a sibling team competing in Spain’s LVP Superliga.
Journey in the LEC – Key Achievements
LEC Debut in 2020
MAD Lions entered the League of Legends European Championship (LEC) in 2020, marking a significant step forward. Their initial roster included Orome, Shad0w, Humanoid, Carzzy, and Kaiser. Despite being a relatively inexperienced team, they performed impressively during their first split, finishing 4th in the regular season. They also achieved a surprise victory by defeating European titans G2 Esports in the playoffs’ winners’ bracket. However, their playoff run came to an end after losses to Fnatic and G2 Esports in the losers’ bracket.
Breakthrough in 2021
The year 2021 was a turning point for MAD Lions. Significant roster upgrades saw Armut and Elyoya replace Orome and Shad0w, bringing a new level of synergy. With this revamped lineup, MAD Lions not only captured their first title by reverse-sweeping Rogue in the LEC Spring Split Finals (April 2021), but also secured qualification for the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI). At MSI, they delivered a strong performance, finishing in the 3-4th rank after falling to DAMWON Gaming.
Later in the same year, MAD Lions claimed the LEC Summer Split 2021 title by overcoming Fnatic in the finals (3-1). This victory earned them a Worlds 2021 berth, where they progressed to the quarterfinals before being eliminated by DAMWON Gaming.
Ups and Downs (2022-2024)
The 2022 and 2023 seasons were a mixed bag for MAD Lions. While they welcomed top-tier players like Nisqy and Elyoya, the team struggled with consistency. They showcased sparks of brilliance, finishing second in the LEC Summer 2022 group stage but falling short in playoffs. In 2023, they experienced fluctuating performances, evident in their 8th-place finish in the LEC Spring split despite steady improvements from the roster.
In 2024, MAD Lions underwent additional roster changes with players such as Fresskowy, Supa, Myrwn, and Alvaro joining the team. Although they managed a notable victory over Fnatic, stability in performance remained elusive.
Key Milestones – Tournament Performances
- ESL Masters 2017: Madrid – Champions
- 15th LVP Superliga – Champions
- 2018 Summer EU Masters – Champions
- LEC Spring Split 2021 – Champions
- LEC Summer Split 2021 – Champions
- MSI 2021 – 3-4th place
- Worlds 2021 – Quarterfinal finish
Merger with Movistar KOI – A New Era
A monumental milestone occurred on December 6, 2024, when MAD Lions completed a merger with Movistar KOI. This collaboration reflects a strategic move to pool resources and expertise under the combined brand of MAD Lions KOI. The move promises to usher in a new chapter for the organization, blending its rich legacy with fresh aspirations.
For official updates on MAD Lions KOI’s journey, visit their officially MAD Lions KOI page.
Notable Players – Past and Present
Over the years, MAD Lions KOI has been home to some of the most talented players in professional League of Legends. Key players include:
- Humanoid – Star mid-laner who played a pivotal role in their LEC victories before joining Fnatic.
- Carzzy – Acclaimed ADC who later moved to Team Vitality.
- Elyoya – A standout jungler renowned for his consistent performances.
- Armut – Top-lane presence that bolstered their LEC dominance.
Frequently Asked Questions about MAD Lions KOI
What is the history of MAD Lions KOI?
MAD Lions KOI was originally founded as MAD Lions in 2017 and later merged with Movistar KOI in 2024. The organization has earned multiple titles in both domestic and international tournaments.
When did MAD Lions win their first LEC title?
MAD Lions achieved their first LEC title in the Spring Split of 2021, defeating Rogue in an exhilarating reverse sweep.
What are some notable achievements of MAD Lions KOI?
The team has won two LEC championships, multiple regional titles, and reached the quarterfinals of Worlds 2021. They also placed 3-4th at MSI 2021.
Who are the key players in MAD Lions KOI’s history?
Notable players include Humanoid, Carzzy, Elyoya, Kaiser, Armut, and Nisqy, all of whom have contributed significantly to the team’s success.
What is the significance of the merger with Movistar KOI?
The merger with Movistar KOI in December 2024 marked a strategic move to combine resources and rebrand the organization, aligning it for further growth and success.
Where can I find the official page for MAD Lions KOI?
You can visit them on the officially MAD Lions KOI page for updates, rosters, and news.
What is MAD Lions KOI’s performance in Worlds?
MAD Lions KOI reached the quarterfinals of Worlds in 2021 but struggled in earlier appearances like Worlds 2020, where they did not advance past the play-in stage.
Are there any famous matches played by MAD Lions KOI?
A notable match includes their reverse sweep against Rogue in the LEC Spring Split 2021 Finals, widely regarded as one of the best series in European LoL history.
What tournaments have MAD Lions KOI excelled in?
MAD Lions KOI has excelled in the LEC (two titles) and European Masters (Summer 2018 champions) while also claiming multiple Spanish titles like the LVP Superliga and Iberian Cup.
How often has MAD Lions KOI changed its roster?
Roster changes are frequent in esports, and MAD Lions KOI is no exception. Among the major changes, the 2021 roster adjustments that brought in Elyoya and Armut proved particularly successful for the team.
