With TI approaching, LGD Esports Club officially announced today via its Weibo account that the LGD midlaner in "DOTA 2" has been officially banned, with suspicions that midlaner TaiLung was found involved in match-fixing.
It is reported that this South American midlaner is only 17 years old. He had a promising future ahead of him, which is truly regrettable.
In addition to TaiLung, another "DOTA 2" team, PTime, was recently found by officials to have integrity issues and was officially banned from this year's Esports World Cup.
TI 2026 is set to begin on August 13, leaving LGD with only four days to find a midlaner.
[LGD Dota 2 Division Announcement]
Recently, LGD Esports Club became aware of information regarding tournament integrity involving TaiLung, a player from the Dota 2 division.
Upon learning of the relevant information, the club immediately initiated an internal investigation and proactively reported the situation and the information available at that time to the tournament organizers. Since then, LGD has continued to cooperate with the tournament organizers in subsequent investigations and communications, providing relevant information as required.
During the subsequent investigation and communication process, the tournament organizers have made a decision regarding this matter: TaiLung is banned from participating in The International 2026; additionally, PGL has decided to impose a lifetime ban on TaiLung from participating in PGL events.
LGD respects the tournament organizers' decision and will complete subsequent work in accordance with the relevant tournament rules and requirements.
Tournament fairness and competitive integrity are fundamental principles of professional esports and the baseline that LGD consistently upholds. For any issues potentially involving tournament integrity, the club will take necessary measures based on facts and evidence, promptly report to the tournament organizers, and actively cooperate with subsequent investigations and handling.
Currently, the remaining players of the LGD Dota 2 division are proceeding with their preparations for The International 2026 as scheduled.
In accordance with the special roster adjustment arrangements approved by the tournament organizers, the club is proceeding with personnel adjustments for the midlane position and related procedures. The new midlaner and the final roster for The International 2026 will be announced as soon as they are confirmed.
Thank you for your attention to the LGD Dota 2 division, and for your understanding and support of our players as they fully prepare for The International 2026.
LGD Esports Club
August 9, 2026