PlayTime found themselves embroiled in a 322 scandal
ESIC made an official statement regarding the case of PlayTime at Esports World Cup 2026.
The team's midlaner DarkMago♡, as well as coach Vintage, have been temporarily suspended from participating in Esports World Cup 2026, as well as all tournaments held under the auspices of ESIC.
What does this mean?
First, DarkMago♡ cannot participate in tournament matches. The upcoming match against Vici Gaming must be played with a substitute.
Second, Vintage, as a coach, is prohibited not only from being behind the players during the draft, but also from performing any coaching, strategic, managerial or team functions, simply put, prohibited from communicating with the roster.
However, the players' guilt has not yet been proven, and the investigation is ongoing. ESIC explicitly emphasize that a final decision has not yet been made. The disqualification is preliminary and protective in nature — to preserve the tournament's reputation, independent collection of evidence, and conduct of the investigation.
Both participants have already been notified of the reasons for the measures, have given interviews to ESIC, and have been given the opportunity to provide their explanations.
What exactly are they suspected of?
The investigation is related to possible violations of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code and the Player Code of Conduct.
According to information being discussed in the community, it refers to suspicion of a match-fixing (322), however ESIC has not yet officially announced proven guilt.
The most suspicious match was against L1ga Team, where PlayTime lost the first map with a score of 28-7 and a surprisingly weak draft. Bets in the amount of $20,000 - $30,000 were placed on the match.
What will happen next?
Until the investigation is complete, ESIC does not plan to make additional public statements. New information will appear only in the event of significant progress in the investigation or the adoption of further disciplinary measures.
The organizers reported that the match between PlayTime and Vici Gaming should take place today, but without the participation of the suspended individuals.
Esports World Cup 2026 takes place from July 7 to 19 in Paris, France. 24 teams will share a prize pool of $2,000,000.
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