Faker Has Become a Minion in Unexpected T1 x Universal Collab
South Korean esports organization T1 has announced an unprecedented collaboration with Universal Products & Experiences to create a limited-edition merchandise line featuring characters from Despicable Me’s Minions. The partnership reimagines T1’s roster—including legendary player Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok—as Minions characters in what the organization describes as a rare exception to standard licensing practices.
The collaboration comes as T1 prepares for the League of Legends World Championship 2026, where the team will pursue its seventh Summoner’s Cup title. T1 is widely recognized as the most successful League of Legends esports organization in history.
The merchandise collection, available through T1’s official online store, includes a range of gaming peripherals and lifestyle items priced between $12–$50. The product lineup features a keyboard keycap set (₩69,000/$50), desk mat (₩35,000/$25), keychain set (₩42,500/$32), and passport case (₩16,000/$12). All items are produced as limited editions.
The partnership represents a unique crossover between major gaming esports and mainstream entertainment IP, highlighting T1’s continued expansion into brand collaborations beyond traditional esports sponsorships.