T1 enters Worlds 2026 as the three-time defending champion but with a third-place LCK finish after inconsistent regular-season results and early exits from MSI and the Esports World Cup. The roster features a bot-lane change with Peyz replacing Gumayusi alongside Doran, Oner, Faker, and Keria, and analysts highlight uneven domestic form, including multiple losses to Gen.G and Hanwha Life Esports. Stronger LCK squads and competitive LPL teams such as Bilibili Gaming present deeper bracket challenges, while T1’s historical Worlds peak and Faker’s experience remain the primary counterbalances. These elements shape trader consensus around the 71.5% implied probability on no fourth consecutive title.