Yes, the Esports World Cup LoL trophy really looks like that

The Esports World Cup just unveiled its LoL trophy design, and fans can’t help but find the design a bit spicy.

The League of Legends esports scene still flourishes in 2024 despite some setbacks. Although some LCS teams did not appreciate being put on the backburner in favor of Valorant, and the unexpected exit of iconic LEC commentator Trevor “Quickshot” Henry disappointed fans, LoL esports remains a must-watch competition. The Esports World Cup, to be held for the first time in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, features 22 events across 21 video games. Naturally, League of Legends is among the games in the tournament given its longevity and prestige. Such prestige requires an equally regal trophy, which the organizers unveiled in June 2024.

The trophy certainly impressed LoL fans, albeit for reasons the Esports World Cup organizers likely didn’t intend.

The Esports World Cup LoL trophy looks suspiciously R-rated

The Esports World Cup trophy for LoL is catching attention for its resemblance to a certain body part.

Redditor u/madtninja shared a photo of the Esports World Cup on the League of Legends subreddit.  The gold trophy stands tall and proud, with a studded pattern across its central shaft and a conveniently wide base. It’s almost like the trophy’s compensating for something, though this remains unconfirmed.

Fans pointed out the suspicious shape of the trophy and immediately joked about it with a sturdy barrage of inappropriate euphemisms. Some fans claim the trophy looks better from certain angles, though not by much. Even so, many agree the whole package needs a redesign. Other jokes touched on the more controversial aspects of the Esports World Cup, namely the institution funding it.

The Esports World Cup is controversial amongst the League of Legends community.

Saudia Arabia’s Public Investment Fund funds the Esports World Cup event, leading fans to criticize Riot for participating in the tournament despite these connections. 

Saudi Arabia has famously invested in multiple sports and entertainment events over the past decade. Critics claim these attempts are “sportswashing,” a way for the government to rehabilitate its image to the public. The irony of the trophy’s unintentional design with the historically socially restrictive Saudi Arabian government stood out for fans.

Criticism of the Esports World Cup isn’t limited to its sponsors either. Some fans criticized the event for reportedly having quarters predetermined with single elimination and best-of-three. Some claimed they would not support the event and just wait for highlights from unofficial channels. The Esports World Cup will begin in July 2024 and end in August 2024.