Rumors: Fnatic Expected to Bench Empyros Before LEC 2026 Summer Split

Rumors: Fnatic Expected to Bench Empyros Before LEC 2026 Summer Split

Fnatic are reportedly set to move Panagiotis “Empyros” Tantis to the bench ahead of the LEC 2026 Summer Split.

The information was reported by Sheep Esports, citing sources close to the situation. Fnatic are said to be searching for a new toplaner after failing to qualify for the Spring Split playoffs. The LEC 2026 Summer Split is scheduled to begin on July 24.

Empyros joined Fnatic as an LEC rookie after spending several years in the ERL system. He previously had a strong 2025 season with Gentle Mates in the LFL, but struggled to make a major individual impact during his first split with Fnatic .

Throughout the Spring Split, the Greek toplaner was often placed in low-economy and utility-focused roles. He played tanks in 13 of his 23 games.

Fnatic have reportedly been reviewing several options for the toplane position in recent weeks. According to the report, the organization has spoken with multiple South Korean players, particularly toplaners from the LCK Challengers League. However, a European signing is still possible.

We previously reported that Riot Games announced several League of Legends updates in a Dev Update on Wednesday, May 27. The update covered the next champion Locke, major ARAM: Mayhem changes, the return of Ranked 5s, new skins, behavioral system changes, and MSI 2026 in Daejeon, South Korea.