The regional League of Legends esports scene is currently embroiled in a significant controversy following allegations of match-fixing that have emerged. This development has led to a temporary halt in the Vietnam Championship Series (VCS), casting a shadow of uncertainty over the playoffs and finals. Riot Games, the organizer of the tournament, has taken decisive action by summoning all eight participating teams to the VCS broadcast studio for a comprehensive investigation.
In an unprecedented move, Riot Games has temporarily suspended 32 players across various teams, signaling the seriousness of the matter at hand. This decision underscores the integrity challenges facing the VCS and raises questions about the future of the competition.
A Widespread Investigation
It is reported that up to 80% of VCS players are under investigation for their involvement in match-fixing activities. This widespread scrutiny has led to the suspension of key players from several teams, including:
- Rainbow Warriors: Ky Vuong / Raze, Hoang Nghia / HinieeeC, Trung Hieu / Hyo, Anh Kiet / Yuki, Dinh Khoi / Spot, Van Hau / Artifact, Quoc Hung / K1ller, and Trong Tri / 2T.
- GAM Esports: Đỗ Đình Sang / Blazes and Lê Viết Huy / Pyshiro.
- Team Flash: Lê Minh Dũng / Dzung, Đinh Bùi Quốc Cường / Marcus, Lê Ngọc Toàn / Draktharr, Nguyễn Hoàng Khánh / Jane, and Lương Thành Tài / Puddin.
- Team Secret: Hoàng Công Nghĩa / Eddie and Quách Khánh Hoàng / Qiang.
- Vikings Esports: Lương Hải Long / Gury, Nguyễn Vũ Khang Nguyên / Bunn, Võ Văn Phi / Kairi, and Ngô Đức Khánh / Kratos.
- Cerberus Esports: Nguyễn Đăng Khoa / Pun, Trần Bảo Quang / Ikigai, Nguyễn Hoàng Phú / Richard I, and Nguyễn Huy Hùng / Slowz.
- MGN Blue Esports: Nguyễn Minh Hào / Sorn, Bùi Văn Minh Hải / Froggy, Võ Hoàng Lê Khang / Ryuk, Đào Văn Tuấn / Rigel, and Tiêu Quốc Lương / Zodiac.
- Team Whales: Trần Văn Chính / BeanJ and Lê Ngọc Vinh / Gloryy.
Repercussions on Esports Reputation
The VCS is a prominent component of the global esports landscape, and the unfolding scandal threatens to tarnish its reputation. Esports manager Chris Smith expressed his disbelief regarding the situation, indicating the potential for long-term damage to the Vietnamese esports scene. Similarly, commentator Isaac Cummings Bentley highlighted a connection between the match-fixing allegations and the economic hardships faced by players. He suggested that insufficient salaries might compel players to seek alternative income sources, including engaging in unethical practices such as match-fixing.
The current predicament has led to speculation about possible structural changes within the league, including a theoretical merger with another regional competition. This rumor parallels the integration of the Oceanian League with the North American LCS, illustrating potential pathways the VCS could explore in response to the scandal. Additionally, the controversy has prompted team responses, with Rainbow Warriors and MGN Blue Esports publicly acknowledging the ongoing investigations. Team Whales took decisive action by terminating its agreements with players BeanJ and Gloryy, who have expressed their eagerness to prove their innocence. Meanwhile, Cerberus Esports has voiced confidence in the innocence of its players and committed to collaborating with the investigative committee.
The uncertainty extends to the VCS's participation in future international events, such as the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI), leaving fans and stakeholders in a state of suspense regarding the league's standing in the global esports arena. Nevertheless, league organizers have assured the public that updates concerning the resumption of the competition will be provided in due course.
In conclusion, the ongoing investigation into match-fixing allegations within the VCS represents a pivotal moment for the league and for esports integrity as a whole. The actions taken by Riot Games and the response from the esports community will be closely watched, as the resolution of this matter could have far-reaching consequences for the credibility and future of competitive gaming in the region.