Spanish organization KOI has been removed from the Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) EMEA League by Riot Games, effective immediately. The termination comes after a breach of their partnership contract, with the organization’s players set to become free agents at the end of the season.
Reasons for Termination
Contractual breach
Riot cited KOI’s failure to comply with the terms of their agreement as the primary reason for termination. The organization did not meet specific contractual obligations, which were unique to KOI within the EMEA partnership.
Co-streaming obligations
A clause required KOI to have co-founder Ibai Llanos co-stream matches. KOI allegedly failed to meet this obligation consistently, even after bringing in a replacement co-streamer. Riot considered this a key part of KOI’s partnership value.
Ibai Llanos Garatea is a Spanish internet celebrity, streamer, and esports commentator. He was a content creator for G2 Esports from 2020 to 2021. He is the co-founder of the esports organisation KOI.
Underperformance
Inconsistent results, low viewership, and poor skin bundle sales were also contributing factors. KOI had one of the lowest-performing teams in the league regarding engagement metrics and competitive success.
Impact on KOI
Player release
All KOI Valorant players are granted free agency status at the end of the season, allowing them to sign with other organizations.
New organization
A new team will take KOI’s slot in the VCT EMEA League for the 2026 season, maintaining the integrity of the competition.
No impact on other Riot esports
KOI’s removal only affects their Valorant partnership. Their involvement in other Riot esports, such as League of Legends, remains unchanged.
Dispute Over Riot’s Handling
Lack of prior warning
Ibai Llanos expressed frustration over the termination, stating that KOI received minimal warning or flexibility from Riot before the announcement.
Proposed solutions rejected
KOI offered alternatives, including having Ibai co-stream matches directly, but Riot did not accept these proposals. Llanos emphasized that the timing and communication left the organization unprepared for the termination.
Background Context
KOI’s VCT performance had been underwhelming, with no international appearances beyond the first round of LOCK//IN and an average EMEA placement of 10th. Their low skin bundle sales in 2025 and limited competitive success meant that Riot’s contractual breach clauses, particularly the co-streaming obligation, were enforceable.
Ibai Llanos is one of the most-followed Spanish streamers, and his involvement was a major factor in KOI’s inclusion in VCT EMEA. Riot expected co-streaming to maintain viewership, but once this was not consistently delivered, they terminated the contract.
Reactions and Future
““The decision came suddenly, and I disagree with it,”” –Adam Adamou
Ibai Llanos and KOI’s CEO both acknowledged their shortcomings in team performance and content but criticized Riot’s handling of the situation. Riot stated they had raised concerns throughout the 2024 season and provided warnings in January and May 2025. Despite KOI offering solutions, Riot proceeded with termination.
Possible Replacements
Gentlemates is considered a likely candidate to rejoin VCT EMEA due to their previous strong performance, fan engagement, and consistent sales. Other potential replacements include German organizations like MOUZ and FOKUS, though Riot will ultimately decide the most viable option.
KOI’s exit opens opportunities for new teams to compete in the league while KOI’s roster evaluates free agency options.
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