The offseason in Valorant esports is already proving explosive. In one of the most controversial roster moves of 2025 so far, Team Vitality announced the signing of Chronicle from Fnatic — a decision that has sparked outrage from the Fnatic camp and stirred major discussion across the pro scene. Alongside this, updates from the Americas and Pacific regions reveal big shifts with MIBR, TSM, and Sentinels also shaking up their lineups.
Chronicle joins Vitality – and Fnatic aren’t happy
Vitality dropped a surprise announcement confirming Chronicle as their newest player for the 2026 VCT season. The move immediately triggered backlash from Fnatic, who claimed the organization was blindsided by how Vitality handled the reveal.
Fnatic’s team director Cojo expressed frustration publicly, saying it was “classless to not allow us to say a proper goodbye to a player who’s contributed so much.” Even Fnatic’s CEO Sam Mathews criticized Vitality’s timing, saying they should have coordinated announcements so both sides could honor the transfer professionally.
Derke, Chronicle’s former teammate on Fnatic and now Vitality player, welcomed him back with a tweet saying:
“Welcome Chronicle. Happy to be reunited with this beast. Can’t wait to win trophies again.”
Chronicle responded warmly, thanking Fnatic for “four grand finals and two trophies,” but it didn’t soften the blow for his old organization. The post from Vitality, showing Chronicle in his new yellow-and-black jersey, amassed millions of views within hours – despite no teaser video or official farewell from Fnatic.
Fnatic leadership later admitted that keeping Chronicle wasn’t financially feasible. Mathews called it an “opportunity cost,” suggesting Vitality’s offer far exceeded what Fnatic could match.
Derke and Chronicle reunited
The move reunites Derke and Chronicle, one of Valorant’s most successful duos, after three strong seasons with Fnatic. Vitality’s signing spree signals a serious intent to contend for EMEA dominance in 2026. The roster now looks stacked on paper, with the Chronicle-Derke combo expected to redefine the team’s playstyle.
However, Fnatic’s next steps remain unclear. Losing Chronicle – arguably the most decorated player in Valorant history – leaves a major gap in their lineup heading into the next VCT season.
TSM and Envy battle for Americas Ascension
Over in the Americas, TSM and Envy have reached the grand finals of the VCT Ascension Americas, after Team Solid fell short. Rising star DG Xan and his squad put up a strong fight but couldn’t stop TSM’s momentum.
This sets up a classic North American showdown for a coveted spot in the main VCT league. Both rosters have been top performers throughout the year, but TSM’s form has many expecting a return to the top division.
MIBR close to signing Tex – but drop Cortasia
Sources close to MIBR suggest that the Brazilian organization will complete its roster with Tex, joining Aspas, Mazino, Zeen, and Verno. The decision to drop Cortasia, one of the team’s most consistent players, surprised many fans.
Rumors indicate that Sentinels may pick up Cortasia as they look to rebuild their roster around new talent and leadership.
Sentinels replace JohnQT with Caillou
More turbulence hit Sentinels as reports surfaced that JohnQT, the team’s in-game leader, will be leaving the team. Sources point to Caillou stepping in as the new IGL for the 2026 season.
JohnQT cryptically tweeted “I’m off to Hogwarts,” hinting that his next move could be to another major organization, though details remain undisclosed.
This change follows an already tough offseason for Sentinels, with Zekken reportedly departing earlier in the year. Fans now await confirmation of the new roster and how the team plans to rebuild its competitive identity.
Vitality win the headlines, but Fnatic lose a cornerstone
Between the financial implications, fan backlash, and the social media chaos, the Chronicle transfer saga is easily the biggest Valorant roster story of the year. It highlights both the competitiveness and the drama of the modern VCT scene – where contracts, leaks, and timing matter as much as the gameplay itself.
Fnatic will now search for a new fifth, while Vitality instantly vaults into title-contender status heading into 2026.
Sources
- Valorant News (YouTube)
- Vitality x.com
- Fnatic x.com
- Liquipedia Valorant for roster data and transfer confirmations
