Natus Vincere started the offseason in the LEC unusually early — the organization agreed to buy out the Greek specialist Vasilis “TheRock” Voltis from Karmine Corp Blue, as reported by Sheep Esports. He will lead the NAVI roster in 2026. The current team coach Simon “fredy122” Payne, who worked during the summer, has already been notified of the end of cooperation following the failure at the Summer Split.

NAVI's Aggressive Move

Typically, clubs wait for the official start of contracts in November, only making verbal agreements. However, NAVI went further and paid a buyout to get the coach immediately. This approach is more reminiscent of practices in CS:GO than in League of Legends. Previously, the club also signed jungler Enes “Rhilech” Ujan in advance, even before the end of the summer split. According to sources, NAVI plans other roster changes for 2026, but which positions will be affected by the restructuring remain unknown.

Why TheRock Chose NAVI

Initially, TheRock intended to continue his career with Karmine Corp at the LEC level, but the organization decided to keep the current staff — Reha, Apples, and Wadi. NAVI's offer presented the coach with a chance to step onto the top tier of the European scene. In KC Blue, the Greek managed to win the LFL Flash-In, play in the spring split final, and reach the semifinals of the EMEA Masters twice. Previously, he coached in Greece and the Balkans, consistently reaching the finals of domestic leagues.

NAVI and the First Season Failure

After purchasing a slot from Rogue, NAVI's debut in the LEC was unsuccessful: 0–8 in the Summer Split, the worst gold differential by the 15th minute, and the lowest kill stats in the league. In 2026, the organization aims to reboot the project with a new staff and an updated roster.