Jankos Explains Why He Turned Down 2025 LEC Offers

Jankos: The Journey and the Decision to Leave G2 Esports

A Legendary Career

Marcin “Jankos” Jankowski, one of the most renowned League of Legends players, has had a storied career that spans over a decade. Born on July 23, 1995, Jankos has been a dominant force in the European League of Legends scene, particularly during his time with G2 Esports.

The G2 Esports Era

Jankos joined G2 Esports in December 2017, marking the beginning of a highly successful chapter in his career. Over the next five years, he was instrumental in the team’s numerous achievements, including multiple LEC titles and a historic win at the 2019 Mid-Season Invitational (MSI).

During his tenure at G2, Jankos transformed from a mechanical carry jungler to a versatile player who could facilitate his team’s carries better than any other jungler in the world. His adaptability and leadership were crucial in making G2 one of the top teams globally. He was consistently recognized for his performances, earning multiple All-Pro team selections and the League MVP award in 2019.

The Decision to Leave

In October 2022, Jankos announced that he would not return to G2 Esports for the 2023 LEC season. This decision was not taken lightly, as Jankos had been an integral part of the team for so long.

“I’ve been part of this team for so long now that changing environments can actually be beneficial,” Jankos explained. “Wherever I end up, if I really want to give it my best for the last couple of years I have left in me, it would be good for me to play with different players, maybe on a different organization. Just to try something else.”

This move was driven by Jankos’s desire for new challenges and the opportunity to grow as a player by experiencing different team dynamics and strategies.

Post-G2 Esports

After leaving G2 Esports, Jankos joined Team Heretics in December 2022. This move marked a new chapter in his career, where he aimed to contribute to a team looking to build a competitive roster. However, his time at Heretics was relatively short-lived, as he moved to The Ruddy Sack in January 2025.

Reflections and Future Plans

Jankos’s departure from G2 Esports was also influenced by his personal growth and the need for a fresh start. In an interview, he reflected on his time at G2 and the reasons behind his decision to leave.

“I think the way I acted at MSI and Worlds was a big reason why G2 decided to move on,” Jankos said. “I didn’t play enough solo at MSI, and at Worlds, I was down for a few days. These were significant reasons, and I think it’s justifiable that they looked for a different jungler.”

Despite the challenges, Jankos remains positive about his future in the League of Legends scene. He expressed his willingness to work with G2 again if the opportunity arose, highlighting his continued passion for the game and his commitment to excellence.

“If Romain came to me and said, ‘Hey, you want to sign with G2?’ I’d be like, ‘Bro, just give me the paper, I’m ready to sign right now.’ I wouldn’t even care about the salary much because G2 is the best team in Europe, and I want to play there,” Jankos stated.

The Impact on the League

Jankos’s career and decisions have had a significant impact on the League of Legends competitive scene. His transition from G2 to other teams has sparked discussions about team dynamics, player growth, and the importance of adapting to new environments.

As the League of Legends landscape continues to evolve, with major roster changes and format adjustments in the LEC, LCK, and other regions, Jankos’s experiences serve as a valuable lesson for players and teams alike. His ability to adapt and lead has set a high standard for junglers and team leaders in the competitive scene.

Conclusion

Jankos’s journey is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and leadership in the world of League of Legends. As he continues to play for The Ruddy Sack, his legacy as one of the greatest junglers in the game remains intact. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring players and a reminder that growth and success often require embracing new challenges and environments.