In a significant development in the world of competitive Valorant, G2 Esports has officially entered the Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) Americas scene by signing the majority of players from The Guard. This move comes after The Guard’s players secured a two-year VCT Americas spot through their victory at Ascension this year. G2 Esports will now compete in VCT Americas for the next two seasons, marking their entry into the top tier of North American Valorant.
Welcome to #VCTAmericas, @G2esports! pic.twitter.com/aF62tC1CG2
— VALORANT Esports NA (@valesports_na) September 22, 2023
The Guard’s Journey to G2 Esports
G2 Esports’ entry into the VCT Americas scene is the culmination of a long journey that began with The Guard’s success. The Guard’s core players, including Jonah “JonahP” Pulice, Michael “neT” Bernet, Trent Cairns, Jacob “valyn” Batio, and coach Josh “JoshRT” Lee, have all signed two-year contracts with G2 Esports. However, the fifth player for the roster is yet to be determined.
The Guard players had multiple offers from around 17 different organizations, but they ultimately chose to join G2. G2 CEO Alban Dechelotte mentioned that the organization has been waiting for this opportunity for over a year, exploring various paths to enter the top tier of VCT, including participating in Ascension via their 2023 NA Challengers campaign and even considering a move to China.
The two-year contracts signed by The Guard’s players with G2 also include provisions that allow for contract extension in the event that G2 secures a full-time partnership in VCT Americas. This flexibility reflects G2’s commitment to the Valorant scene and its plans to potentially expand its presence further.
G2 Esports Controversial History
G2 Esports’ entry into VCT Americas is a significant step, especially considering the organization’s previous attempt to join the league. In the past, G2 was set to become a full-fledged partner organization in VCT Americas, but controversy involving G2 founder Carlos Rodríguez’s association with controversial influencer Andrew Tate led to community backlash and Riot Games reversing its decision. Rodríguez subsequently departed from the company.
G2’s entry into VCT Americas marks a new beginning for the organization in the competitive Valorant scene. It signifies the team’s determination to be part of the league and engage with Valorant fans through various means, including watch parties and digital items.
With G2 joining VCT Americas, the competitive Valorant scene in North America gains a strong and reputable organization. The signing of The Guard’s players strengthens G2’s roster, and fans can expect exciting performances from the team in upcoming Valorant tournaments. This move also highlights the growing significance of Valorant esports on the global stage and the increasing interest from prominent esports organizations like G2 Esports.
