T1 enters Worlds 2026 as the defending three-time champion but as LCK third seed after a mixed regular season that included MSI and Esports World Cup disappointments plus a playoff exit to Hanwha Life Esports. The roster features continuity at jungle, mid, and support with Faker, Oner, and Keria alongside newcomer Peyz in the bot lane, preserving core experience that has fueled prior title runs. Gen.G and HLE lead domestic form and power rankings, creating a deeper LCK field that raises the bar for another four-peat. Swiss-stage matchups beginning October 23 will test early adaptation, while T1’s historical knockout-stage resilience and bracket positioning keep the implied probability near even, with outcomes hinging on whether peak execution overcomes regular-season inconsistencies against stronger regional contenders.