Na’Vi Withdraws from ONE Esports Singapore Major Due to COVID-19
In a recent announcement, Natus Vincere (Na’Vi) revealed that they will not be participating in the ONE Esports Singapore Major for various reasons, including ongoing issues with COVID-19. This news comes shortly after beastcoast also announced their withdrawal from the event.
COVID-19 Concerns Impact Na’Vi’s Roster
Na’Vi initially confirmed that two of their players, Bogdan “Iceberg” Vasilenko and team captain Andrii “ALWAYSWANNAFLY” Bondarenko, tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, the team planned to use stand-ins for the Major. However, their coach, Andrey “Mag” Chipenko, also tested positive for the virus after the initial announcement. Several other players on the roster experienced high fevers in recent days.
Self-Quarantine and Travel Concerns
Upon realizing the extent of the COVID-19 situation within their team, Na’Vi reached out to the tournament organizers. They were informed that if they were to travel, the team would need to self-quarantine, which would prevent them from participating in the Major. The organization also expressed concerns about potential travel restrictions hindering the players’ return for the next season of the Dota Pro Circuit.
Failed Efforts to Replace Mag
Na’Vi had preliminary discussions with their former player, Nikola “LeBronDota” Popović, about replacing Mag at the event. However, due to a flight cancellation and other complications, this option fell through. Ultimately, Na’Vi made the decision to withdraw from the tournament entirely.
With Na’Vi out of the Major, RAMZES, one of the best players in the world, is left as a free agent and ready to compete for any team in need of a last-minute stand-in.
Now, Valve, ONE Esports, and PGL will likely need to make adjustments to the event, given the removal of two teams from the roster.
The ONE Esports Singapore Major is scheduled to begin on March 27.
Na’Vi, Dota 2, ONE Esports Singapore Major, COVID-19, roster, withdrawal, stand-ins, self-quarantine, travel restrictions, Dota Pro Circuit, RAMZES, adjustments