Rumor: NAVI Reportedly Signs Rhilech as Starting Jungler for 2026 Season

Rumors

NaVi

Natus Vincere is said to have finalized an agreement with Turkish jungler Enes "Rhilech" Ucan, who will reportedly become the team’s starting jungler for the 2026 LEC season, according to Sheep Esports. Rhilech is expected to replace Francisco "Thayger" Mazo Sanchez, who joined on a short-term contract for the Summer 2025 split.

🔁 Why the Early Move? Visa Complications & Contract Strategy

Rhilech couldn’t be registered for LEC Summer 2025 due to visa constraints that affected Turkish players. By the time NAVI entered the league, the administrative window for processing had already closed. To secure the rising star and prevent losing him in the off-season, NAVI negotiated an early buyout with BK ROG—his current team. The financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed.

Sources say Team BDS and Fnatic also considered signing Rhilech, but both backed out due to potential delays with visa acquisition.

📈 Rhilech's Fast-Track Rise from ERL to LEC

Rhilech’s competitive journey began in Turkey’s academy scene before moving to DSYRE, where he quickly rose through the ranks. Within two years, he became champion of both LIT and LFL, capping off Spring 2025 with a French league title at BK ROG and a strong EMEA Masters semifinal appearance.

The 21-year-old has already competed in EMEA Masters four times, drawing significant attention from LEC organizations thanks to his consistency and fast development.

Don’t miss esport news and update! Sign up and recieve weekly article digest!

🧠 NAVI Follows Proven Blueprint for Success

By locking Rhilech in early, NAVI joins the ranks of teams like Vitality and FlyQuest, which have previously signed players well in advance to manage visa logistics and facilitate early adaptation. Rhilech is already training with the squad and is set to debut in LEC Winter 2026, giving him ample time to settle into the system and meta expectations.