Team LDLC co-founder Anthony Rabby also joins M8
Léo "Lounet" Maurice, a prominent figure in the French League of Legends scene, is set to join Gentle Mates as General Manager, according to Sheep Esports sources. Having been active in the competitive scene since 2011, the former support player has already made his mark as part of the coaching staff for two LFL teams: LDLC OL and AEGIS. His methods proved highly effective with the Foxes, as LDLC secured the first two splits in the history of the French league in 2019, as well as the 2020 European Masters Spring edition.
Lounet also enjoyed another standout year in 2022 with the Lyon-based team, winning both splits that season with players like Martin "Yike" Sundelin, Thomas “Exakick” Foucou or Mads “Doss” Schwartz. He then moved to Aegis, alongside his former midlaner from LDLC, Jérémy “Eika” Valdenaire, where he experienced two more years with mixed results. After a successful third-place finish in the 2023 Spring Split, AEGIS struggled in the summer, placing sixth, followed by a disastrous 2024 season. The team finished last in both splits that year and ultimately lost its spot in the LFL during the Up&Down tournament.
Following in Aegis' Footsteps
So far, Gentle Mates seem to be tracing a similar trajectory to that of Aegis. In their debut year in the French league, M8 finished third in the 2024 Spring Split, with Eika again occupying the midlane. However, much like AEGIS the year prior, Gentle Mates had a more challenging summer, ending the split in eighth place. The team, led by Lucas "Squeezie" Hauchard, Corentin "Gotaga" Houssein, and Kevin "Brawks" Georges, will need to avoid Aegis’ fate if they hope to improve in the upcoming season.
With Gentle Mates, Lounet won't be just responsible of League Of Legends anymore, but also other games.