Esports giant Fnatic will temporarily shut down its Dota 2 operations following an underwhelming campaign in the Dota Pro Circuit SEA 2023 Tour 1: Division I, the organization announced on Friday night.
Coming off another The International appearance, Fnatic was expected to reclaim the SEA region after undergoing a roster overhaul that saw them nab Filipino Dota 2 star Kim “Gabbi” Villafuerte and Australian veteran Damien “kpii” Chok.
However, the team failed to live up to expectations and finished the first tour with a league-worst 1-6 standing which relegated them to the second division.
“After reflecting on the sustainability of our DOTA 2 roster, we’ve made the hard decision to temporarily withdraw from the title,” said Fnatic in an official statement.
Gabbi, kpii, Armel “Armel” Tabios, Djardel “DJ” Mampusti, and Jaunuel “Jaunuel” Arcilla will continue to play their final tournament under Fnatic in the ongoing BTS Pro Series.
Fnatic vowed to help their players and staff find a new home for the next tour.
“We are working hard to source a new home for our existing Dota players and staff before formally leaving the DPC Tour 2023,” said Fnatic.
“The current roster will continue to represent Fnatic through the ongoing BTS Pro Series, after which we will support each of them as they explore their next steps in their careers,” the statement continued.
Fnatic expressed their utmost gratitude to all the individuals who have been part of their journey throughout the years.
“Thank you Gabbidota, Armeldota, Kpiidota, Djardel “Dj” Mampusti, & Jaunuel for representing us throughout. We are proud and grateful to be part of your journey and we wish you luck in your next endeavors.”
