The recent action taken by Riot Games has stirred considerable discussion within the competitive community, marking "a pivotal juncture that redefined the trajectory for one of the" league participants.
Riot Games confirmed that it is enforcing a severe measure against Movistar KOI due to a violation of their contractual obligations with the league. The incident, which remains vaguely defined in terms of specifics, has resulted in the organization being immediately removed from the Valorant Champions Tour EMEA.
Consequently, Movistar KOI will no longer compete in the upcoming 2026 season under this banner, as the organization is set to be replaced. This decision marks an unprecedented step by Riot, emphasizing the gravity of adhering to league agreements.
Additionally, the revised circumstances allow the players from the affected team to be signed by other organizations during a short, temporary window, despite the transfer period having technically concluded. This adjustment is designed to help the athletes transition while the team’s status remains in flux.
The ruling impacts solely the VCT EMEA division of Movistar KOI, leaving other teams and divisions managed by the organization unaffected. Moreover, the identity of the team that will take the vacated slot has not been disclosed yet, though it is confirmed that the upcoming Ascension EMEA event—with its planned promotion for two teams—will proceed as scheduled.