T1 Issues Official Apology Regarding Zeus Transfer Controversy

T1 has officially apologized for the controversy surrounding the transfer of player 'Zeus' Choi Woo-je. In their statement, they clarified misunderstandings about deadlines and allegations of tampering.

On the 23rd, T1 released a video apology on their official YouTube channel addressing the dispute surrounding Zeus’s transfer.

In the video, COO Ahn Woong-ki expressed, "I sincerely apologize to Zeus, his family, and The Play (Zeus’s agency)."

Earlier, on June 21, T1 held a briefing where they shared their position on Zeus's transfer process, and later, on the 25th, there was a meeting facilitated by Kim Seong-hoi of 'G-sikbaek' in which T1 COO Ahn Woong-ki, general manager Jung Hwa-yoon, The Play's Kang Beom-jun, and a representative of Zeus’s family confirmed each other's positions.

COO Ahn stated, "During that meeting, we came to understand again the pain and suffering that Zeus and his family experienced over the past few months," and added, "We prepared this statement to sincerely apologize and to ensure that Zeus and his family do not suffer any further."

Clarification on Misunderstandings in the Negotiation Process and Deadline Controversy

In this apology, T1 clearly explained several misunderstandings that occurred during the negotiation process.

COO Ahn said, "First of all, I empathize with the fact that T1's initial proposal could have been seen as disrespectful to the player and apologize for providing misleading information." He also added, "It has been confirmed that Zeus had genuine concerns for his original team during the negotiation process."

Specifically, T1 made clear their position regarding the controversial 'deadline' matter between T1 and The Play. The Play claimed to have received a proposal with a deadline from Hanwha Life Esports, while T1 maintained that Hanwha Life Esports did not establish a deadline upon verification.

Clear Position Statement

COO Ahn explained, "While The Play communicated that they received a proposal with a deadline, at that time, T1 had the impression from Hanwha Life that there was no deadline, which led to misunderstandings with The Play."

Additionally, he firmly addressed the allegations of tampering raised by some fan communities.

COO Ahn stated, "I have never suspected tampering while Zeus was with T1, and I believe there was no such tampering that actually occurred," adding, "I take full responsibility for the misunderstandings caused by our inadequate response."

He also acknowledged issues with what was mentioned about Zeus during the previously held briefing. COO Ahn said, "I learned that the content shared during the briefing has led to indiscriminate criticism and suffering for Zeus and his family," emphasizing, "I conveyed my apology during our meeting on the 25th and would like to apologize once again now."

Furthermore, T1 officially declared the end of their ongoing conflicts with The Play.

COO Ahn stated, "There were many misunderstandings and grievances during the negotiation process, but both sides confirmed that they did their best from their respective positions and were able to understand each other to a significant extent. Now, we have agreed to end disputes with The Play and wish each other well and success."

Expressing respect for Zeus, who had contributed to countless glories during his five years at T1, COO Ahn urged, "I hope that fans will sincerely support and encourage Zeus."

Lastly, COO Ahn remarked, "Though this apology is late and insufficient, I sincerely hope our intentions are conveyed to Zeus, his family, The Play, and the fans, and I earnestly ask everyone to refrain from indiscriminate criticism of Zeus from now on."

Meanwhile, Zeus concluded his contract with T1 in November 2024 and transferred to Hanwha Life Esports, a competing team in the LCK. T1 filled the vacant top laner position by acquiring ‘Doran’ Choi Hyun-jun from Hanwha Life Esports.

The news of Zeus, who led the so-called 'Zeopenguke' roster to two consecutive World Championship victories, moving to a rival team was a significant shock to fans at the time.

Throughout this process, several strong fans directed personal attacks at Zeus, leading to unspecified various claims and rumors as the assertions between T1 and The Play regarding the negotiation process diverged, further worsening the situation.

Now, about nine months after the controversy arose, T1 has posted an official apology video, dismissing the 'tampering' allegations related to player Zeus.

YouTube 'T1'

Image sources: t1 Ahn Woong-ki COO / youtube 'T1', 'Zeus' Choi Woo-je / instagram 'godthunderzeus', x 't1lol', 'Zeus' Choi Woo-je / instagram 'lckofficial'