Evil Geniuses' plans to part ways with their VALORANT partnership have been foiled by Riot Games, according to recent reports. The offseason for VALORANT, following Evil Geniuses' unexpected triumph in the world championship, saw the organization seeking an exit from its partnership within VCT Americas. However, Riot Games intervened, reportedly preventing the transfer from materializing.

Alejandro “Anonimotum” Gomis sheds light on the situation, detailing Riot's rejection of an agreement between Evil Geniuses and LCS participant FlyQuest. This deal would have entailed the reigning VALORANT world champions relinquishing their partnership slot to FlyQuest. Consequently, FlyQuest faced its second setback in attempting to join VCT Americas, losing out on acquiring The Guard’s roster to G2 Esports.

It appears that Evil Geniuses contemplated a complete departure from esports after being bought out of the LCS for approximately $6 million. Negotiations between Evil Geniuses and FlyQuest spanned several months, with FlyQuest aiming to secure both the partnership spot and the championship roster. Plans were underway to provide facilities and offices for the players. Both parties remained optimistic, drawing on precedent where Riot reversed decisions upon The Guard's exit from esports, allowing the players to find new homes.

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Gomis also unveils details regarding the contractual predicament of Evil Geniuses' players during the offseason. Reportedly, players were expected to accept a significant reduction in their annual salary, risking termination if they declined. Furthermore, Evil Geniuses reportedly turned down buyout offers from 100T for Boostio, as well as a $100,000 buyout for Demon1 and Ethan from NRG.