The Controversial Appearance That Cost G2 Esports a VALORANT Spot
G2 Esports owner Carlos Rodriguez’s public appearance with controversial figure Andrew Tate had repercussions beyond losing a partnered spot in the VCT 2023 Americas league. It reportedly also prevented XSET players and staff from staying together and competing in the top-tier league.
G2’s Interest in XSET Roster and Coaching Staff
The Washington Post’s Mikhail Klimentov reported that the G2 organization had expressed strong interest in acquiring XSET’s roster and coaching staff. The deal seemed likely if G2 secured a spot in the Americas league.
However, due to the controversy surrounding Carlos’ appearance with Tate, Riot’s decision to make G2 a partner in the Americas league was reversed. Riot executives met in Istanbul during Champions 2022 after the situation unfolded and decided against giving a partnership slot to G2.
Carlos initially faced public backlash after his appearance with Tate but responded defiantly. He was later suspended by the organization for two months without pay. However, his subsequent actions on social media seemed contradictory to his apology.
Implications for XSET and G2’s EMEA Roster
In light of Riot’s decision, LATAM team Leviatán will receive the spot in the Americas league instead of G2. This limits XSET’s chances of staying together and being picked up by one of the five partnered NA organizations next year. Furthermore, all the players and staff on G2’s EMEA roster are now in restricted free agency and seeking new opportunities.
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