In the global climate change emergency, a fundamental axis for mitigation is associated with the energy sector, which accounts for 77% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The international phenomenon characterized by replacing fossil energy sources with renewable energy sources, aiming at emissions reduction, is termed Energy Transition. In this context, incumbent oil and gas sector companies find themselves at the center of this strategic dilemma, as this sector accounts for 50% of global energy demand and is focused on fossil energy sources that emit greenhouse gases. This study aims to elucidate the factors preceding engagement in the energy transition by incumbent oil and gas sector companies, enabling them to overcome organizational inertia and adopt strategies that lead them to adapt to the changing global landscape that this sector is undergoing. Through a multi-year empirical study (2017-2022) and a comprehensive database (168 companies in the industry), empirical tests were applied to verify the factors preceding incumbent oil and gas companies engagement. It was seen that the enforcement of the Paris Agreement, the nature of shareholder control, and the importance of the upstream segment influence incumbent companies engagement in the oil & gas sector.