Misfits Rebranded as Renegades, Owner Banned by Riot Games
The recent re-branding of League of Legends team Misfits to Renegades was a sign of things to come. Team owner Chris Badawi is now facing consequences from Riot Games for tampering.
Riot Games has leveled a penalty against Badawi, banning him from participating as a recognized team member (owner, manager, or player) on a team across Riot Games competitions. This means that if Renegades qualifies for the League Championship Series, Badawi must divest his ownership stake in the team. Additionally, he must divest his minority stake in Team Dragon Knights, a current LCS squad.
Riot alleges that Badawi contacted Team Liquid player Yuri “KEITHMCBRIEF” Jew and offered him a salaried position without knowledge of Team Liquid management. After Badawi clarified with Riot Games on the poaching rules, Riot made it clear that any owner who violated these rules would not pass their review to be permitted into the LCS. Nevertheless, Badawi allegedly did the same with Diego “Quas” Ruiz, eventually admitting his contact with Ruiz but denying that he offered him a salary—a claim that Riot alleges is false.
Renegades Rebranding Questioned
The recent rebranding of Misfits as Renegades now raises questions, as the team brought on commentator Christopher “MonteCristo” Mykkles as a part owner—possibly a strategic move to prevent Badawi from needing to divest his stake. Though Badawi is banned from working with a team in an official Riot capacity, he may still be able to work with the team in other capacities. There is a possibility of reinstatement after a review in 2017.
Harsh Punishment from Riot Games
The one-year ban for Badawi seems harsh compared to past fines issued in similar cases. Counter Logic Gaming owner George “HotshotGG” Georgallidis was fined $10,000 and player William “Scarra” Li was suspended for three weeks after Georgallidis poached Li and lied about it during the investigation. The reason for the severe punishment against Badawi is likely because he is not signed to an official contract with Riot Games, leaving them with limited options for recourse.
Tough Times for Renegades
The ban on Badawi is a blow for Renegades, as they have benefitted from his hands-on and player-centric ownership. Although he may still work with the team in unofficial capacities, it remains to be seen how this ruling will impact the team.