The Esports Foundation (EF) announced that it has appointed Lee 'Faker' Sang-hyeok, the world-renowned player who holds the record for the most championship titles in League of Legends (LoL) history, as the Game Ambassador for the Esports World Cup (EWC) and the Esports Nations Cup (ENC) through 2028.

'Faker' has established himself as a sports icon representing not just esports, but South Korea as a whole. By joining the EF Ambassador Program alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Magnus Carlsen, he will promote the value of global competitive culture, bridging traditional sports, competitive gaming, and esports to a worldwide audience.

'Faker' will participate in various EF-led initiatives, including international tournaments, athlete support programs, media activities, and leadership forums, where he will represent esports athletes and contribute to strengthening ties between players, fans, and relevant organizations.

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the EF, stated, "You cannot talk about esports without mentioning Faker. With his exceptional skill, rigorous self-discipline, and long-standing dominance at the top, he is an iconic figure in competitive gaming who has inspired an entire generation." He added, "As a Game Ambassador, 'Faker' embodies the core value of our program: that esports can produce global sports icons. Through his involvement in the EWC, ENC, and the New Global Sports Conference (NGSC), he will help ensure that the players who have built esports have an active voice in shaping its future."

'Faker' remarked, "The world of competition has shaped my life, and I am proud to join the EF as a Game Ambassador. While I continue my pursuit of championships on the biggest stages with T1, I also want to represent the players and fans who have grown alongside the global esports scene." He added, "Through EF's various platforms, including the EWC and ENC, I want to inspire the next generation to constantly strive for excellence, never give up in the face of adversity, and believe in how far they can go through competitive gaming. There is still much I want to achieve."

He has recorded six LoL World Championship titles, two Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) wins, and 10 LCK championships, having competed at the highest level with T1 for over a decade. He also claimed victory at the inaugural EWC in 2024, adding another international title to his name. He is currently participating in this year's EWC in Paris, aiming to reclaim the championship trophy.