European esports powerhouse Fnatic is making waves ahead of the 2026 LEC season with a significant roster update. The organization has brought in top laner Panagiotis ‘Empryos’ Tantis, a move that promises to add strength to their lineup. Known for his dynamic playstyle, Empryos adds depth to Fnatic’s strategy as the team gears up for an exciting year.
A Promising Addition
Joining from the tier-two ecosystem, Empryos previously played for the Gentle Mates. His experience and skill are expected to bolster Fnatic’s performance in the LEC. Reports suggest that he will be reunited with mid laner Vladimir ‘Vladi’ Kourtidis, with whom he shared the stage at Riddle Esports in 2022. Fnatic is banking on this synergy to propel the team to new heights in the upcoming season.
Achievements and Ambitions
In 2025, Empryos made his mark in the Ligue Française de League of Legend (LFL), achieving commendable third-place finishes in the Spring and Summer Splits, and securing a top-eight spot at the EMEA Masters 2025 Spring. Empryos expressed his eagerness for the challenges ahead, stating, “2026 will be an interesting year. I’m really confident in myself playing versus the best top laners, and this year, I would like to go to Worlds as a rookie.”
Looking Back at 2025
Fnatic’s performance in 2025 was noteworthy, with third-place finishes in the LEC Winter and Summer, and a fourth place in the LEC Spring. However, these results were not sufficient for consistent international appearances, with the team only making it to the 2025 World Championship, where they faced tough competition. With Empryos now on board, fans are eager to see if he can maintain his impressive LFL form on Europe’s biggest stage.