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Carlos “ocelote” Rodríguez, CEO of G2 Esports, has stepped down from the company he co-founded. This decision followed Rodríguez posting a video of himself partying with banned controversial influencer Andrew Tate and doubling down on his decision despite fan reactions.
Rodriguez and G2 Esports announced his resignation on Twitter.
Initially, G2 and Rodríguez agreed to eight weeks of unpaid leave. However, the former CEO’s actions have reportedly cost the Berlin-based company a franchise spot on Riot Games’ Valorant Champions Tour (VCT).
Prior to the controversy, G2 was confident they would get a spot in VCT’s Americas League. players confirmed that G2 would take over XSET’s highly regarded Valorant roster.
While esports franchise slots traditionally cost millions, Riot chose not to charge a franchise fee for the VCT. Since G2 last raised capital in Dec 2019the loss of a valuable – free – asset due to the mishandling of Rodríguez may have prompted the G2 Esports board to act.
With this decision, G2 is entering unknown waters. Rodríguez was the CEO of G2 Esports, co-founder and face of the organization. G2 must find a way to redefine itself – for brand partners and fans alike – if it is to remain one of Europe’s most prestigious esports teams.
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