Riot Considers Alternative Solution for The Guard’s VCT Spot

Riot’s decision to exclude Ascension-winning team The Guard from VCT Americas next year has sparked outrage in the VALORANT community. However, global head of VALORANT esports Leo Faria has hinted that the company may be working towards finding another solution.

Initially, Riot claimed that The Guard had failed to comply with the necessary procedures to secure their spot in the Americas league. This led to backlash from the community, with many arguing that the players deserved the VCT spot they had earned by winning the Ascension event.

In response to the criticism, Faria took to Twitter to address the situation. He confirmed that The Guard had indeed missed the deadline for onboarding into the VCT Americas league. He also explained the three options Riot had considered, ultimately leading to the decision to eliminate the team’s spot.

The Americas VALORANT Players Association proposed a different solution, suggesting that all five players and the head coach be signed under a new organization, allowing them to retain the league spot. However, Faria expressed concerns about this option, as it could open the door for the sale of VCT slots, which is not allowed.

Despite the initial decision, Faria acknowledged the outcry from the community and stated that Riot is revisiting the situation. The players from The Guard still hold the VCT spot, and the company is working towards finding a solution that rewards their performance while setting a precedent for all VCT leagues.

Faria emphasized that there are still risks that need to be addressed, but he remains hopeful for a positive outcome for the players. He thanked the community for their passion and advocacy and promised to provide updates on the situation.

As of now, the players and coach of The Guard are still unaware of the final decision. It remains to be seen whether all parties can reach a resolution that ensures the participation of the expected 11 VALORANT team rosters in VCT Americas next year.