T1 suspended Valorant head coach David Denis prior to this weekend’s North America VCT open qualifier, the organization announced Tuesday.
The ban comes on the heels of Riot Games finding evidence that T1’s coaching staff communicated with players mid-match against TSM in the NA VCT open qualifier.
“T1 has completed a throughout review of the actions that took place this weekend during the Valorant Champions Tour Open qualifier competition and would like to express our regret for violating the rules and communicating outside of pauses,” T1 said in a statement. “In response to this violation, T1 has proactively suspended head coach David Denis for this weekend’s open qualifier.
“As a company, T1 takes pride in fostering a culture of integrity in both our players and coaches.”
Official statement regarding #VALORANT. pic.twitter.com/w6n3P3NDaN
— T1 (@T1) February 1, 2022
T1 posted a 2-0 win over TSM in the open qualifier on Saturday. TSM’s Yassine “Subroza” Taoufik, however, claimed T1’s coach was typing and likely talking to players during the match.
Riot Games’ Competitive Operations made T1 forfeit the victory after reviewing the matter.
–Field Level Media