The esports world is in mourning today following the news that Lauri "Cyanide" Happonen has passed away at the age of 31. A foundational figure in the history of League of Legends, the Finnish player’s death was confirmed by the Digital and Population Data Services Agency in Finland, with reports indicating he passed away on July 31.
For many, Cyanide will forever be remembered as the young prodigy who helped define the early era of professional League of Legends. Joining Fnatic in 2011, he became the youngest player to ever hoist the Summoner’s Cup, securing victory at the inaugural World Championship at just 16 years of age. That historic win remains the only time a European team has claimed the title, a fact that cements his place in the history books of the game.
Beyond that singular achievement, Cyanide was a pillar of the Fnatic roster for years. He helped the organization secure three European league titles between 2013 and 2014 and was a constant presence at the top of the competitive ladder. His playstyle, particularly his innovative use of Gangplank in the jungle, left a lasting impact on how the role was played at the highest level.
Even after his competitive retirement in 2015, he remained a beloved figure within the scene. Just this past July, he made a return to the spotlight, participating in a special showmatch during the LEC Summer 2026 broadcast. Former teammates, including Bora "YellOwStaR" Kim, have shared heartfelt tributes, describing him as one of the most genuine and kind individuals they had the privilege to know.
His passing marks a somber moment for the community, as he is the second member of that iconic 2011 Fnatic lineup to pass away, following the death of Maciej "Shushei" Ratuszniak in 2025. While the competitive scene continues to move forward, the legacy of players like Cyanide serves as a reminder of the human stories behind the screen. For those looking to follow the current professional scene, you can check out the latest matches or dive into our MyEsports predictions for upcoming events.