Riot Games has officially terminated Movistar KOI’s partnership in the Valorant VCT EMEA league starting from the 2026 season. According to Riot, the removal followed a breach of contract related to KOI’s unique obligations involving co-streaming and content delivery. Despite having been a franchise partner since 2023, KOI will no longer participate, and Riot plans to replace them before the new season begins.

Why Riot Removed Movistar KOI

Riot highlighted several factors that led to this decision:

  • Unmet Co-Streaming Obligations – KOI failed to replace Ibai Llanos as a main co-streaming asset and fell short of required streaming hours.

  • Repeated Contract Warnings – Riot reportedly issued multiple notices throughout 2024, but issues remained unresolved.

  • Commercial and Competitive Struggles – KOI underperformed both on the server and commercially, with lower-than-expected skin bundle sales and poor tournament results.

These combined issues ultimately triggered KOI’s exclusion from VCT EMEA despite attempts by the organization to address Riot’s concerns.

Community and Player Reactions

The decision came as a shock to fans and players alike:

KOI is officially out of VCT
byu/aJetg inValorantCompetitive

  • Ibai Llanos’ Response – The KOI co-founder expressed disappointment, stating Riot informed them only one day before the public announcement.

  • OverActive Media’s Position – Parent company CEO Adam Adamou argued that KOI had fulfilled its contractual duties in 2024 and called the decision “unjust.”

My Statement on VCT EMEA:

“Riot has decided that our time in VCT will end after the 2025 season. I don’t agree with their decision. We delivered everything in 2024, and for 2025 and 2026 our agreement required us to provide alternatives if we were unable to meet certain…

— Adam Adamou 🐦‍🔥🎏 (@Grazen) September 6, 2025

  • Fan Backlash – The Valorant community quickly reacted on Reddit and Twitter, criticizing Riot’s abrupt communication and lack of transparency.

This move also opens a special transfer window, allowing KOI players to seek opportunities with other organizations ahead of the 2026 season.

What’s Next for VCT EMEA After KOI’s Removal

With KOI officially out, Riot is expected to announce a replacement organization soon. The competitive structure of VCT EMEA will remain unchanged, with two teams still promoted from Ascension each year. Additionally:

  • KOI’s current roster enters free agency.

  • Riot is reviewing potential candidates for the open franchise slot.

  • KOI remains active in League of Legends and is rumored to be exploring Counter-Strike 2 involvement.

The departure of Movistar KOI marks a pivotal shift for VCT EMEA as Riot tightens enforcement of contractual obligations.