G2 Esports Faces Backlash for Tasteless Meme Amid Contract Negotiations
G2 Esports is facing criticism on social media once again, this time for posting a meme on its Twitter page. The meme, which depicts prison cells in different European countries, includes G2’s logo in place of a “contract jail,” alluding to the organization’s history of high asking prices for player contracts.
The controversial post comes at a time when G2 is engaged in contract negotiations with one of its star players, jungler Marcin “Jankos” Jankowski. Jankos revealed earlier this week that he is at the center of a bidding war between G2 and other LEC teams in need of a jungler.
The meme has drawn backlash from the League of Legends community, with many criticizing G2 for lacking empathy towards its players during the stressful contract negotiation process. Analysts and casters have also joined in, questioning the organization’s attempt at humor.
Jankos’ Doubtful Future and Lowered Asking Price
In a livestream, Jankos expressed uncertainty about his future and the possibility of securing a deal with another LEC team due to G2’s high buyout price for his contract. This led to speculation that he may be without a team for the 2023 season. According to a report, Jankos’ initial asking price was “well over 1 million euros,” but it has since been lowered to 600,000 euros.
Reports also suggest that G2 is set to sign LFL jungler Martin “Yike” Sundelin to replace Jankos for the upcoming season. The decision to lower Jankos’ buyout price reportedly came after all 10 LEC teams had finalized agreements with their junglers for next season.
G2’s History of Self-Deprecating Memes
G2 has a reputation for posting self-deprecating memes on social media, particularly after its esports teams experience losses. However, the recent meme has crossed a line for many League personalities and fans, who argue that G2 should show more empathy towards its players during these challenging contract negotiations.
Jankos himself responded to the tweet with a grimacing emoji, indicating his discomfort with the situation. It is worth noting that Jankos is currently under contract with G2 through the end of the 2023 season and cannot enter free agency without a buyout.
As the controversy surrounding G2’s meme continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how it will impact the organization’s image and future player negotiations.