Virtus.pro Withdraws from ESL Pro League S20

Russian Team Withdraws After ESL Ban

Virtus.pro, a Russian esports organization, has withdrawn from the ESL Pro League Season 20 (S20) for Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) following ESL's decision to ban Russian teams from its events due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

ESL's Ban on Russian Teams

In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, ESL announced on March 1, 2023, that it would ban all Russian teams from participating in its events until further notice. The ban was imposed "in line with the current international sanctions and recommendations," according to ESL.

Virtus.pro's Withdrawal

Virtus.pro issued a statement on March 2, 2023, announcing its withdrawal from the ESL Pro League S20. The statement expressed the team's disappointment with ESL's decision and emphasized that the team had "always been against any form of violence and aggression."

Impact on the ESL Pro League

Virtus.pro's withdrawal leaves only 23 teams competing in the ESL Pro League S20. The team's absence will likely have a significant impact on the competition, as Virtus.pro is one of the top teams in the world.

Esports Community Reaction

The esports community has reacted with mixed emotions to ESL's decision to ban Russian teams. Some have expressed support for the ban, arguing that it is necessary to show solidarity with Ukraine. Others have criticized the ban, calling it discriminatory and unfair to Russian players who are not responsible for the actions of their government.

Future of Russian Esports

The ban on Russian teams from ESL events raises questions about the future of Russian esports. It is unclear how long the ban will last or whether other tournament organizers will follow ESL's lead.

Additional Information

For more information on this developing story, please refer to the following resources:

• ESL Statement on the Situation in Ukraine
• Virtus.pro Statement on ESL Pro League S20
• Virtus.pro Withdraw from ESL Pro League S20