With the first DPC 2023 tours about to come to an end, Fnatic have announced that they will be temporarily withdrawing from Dota 2 following their team's disappointing performance this year.
Fnatic leaves the DPC following disappointing results
Fnatic had a disastrous run through the first tour of the year, failing to win even a single series until their January 27 match against Talon Esports, ending a brutal losing streak that has seen the team moved down into the second division.
As a result of this bruising performance, Fnatic revealed that it had been "reflecting on the sustainability" of its Dota 2 roster, ultimately deciding to "make a difficult but necessary decision to temporarily withdraw from the Dota 2 pro circuit."
It's quite the fall for Fnatic, who qualified for the TI11 - though admittedly had a disappointing run at the October 2022 tournament, placing in 13th - 16th place. Still, their departure (albeit temporary) marks the end of an era in the DPC, with the organisation having been in the Dota 2 Pro Circuit from its earliest days - having fielded its first Dota 2 roster in 2011. This also marks the first time that Fnatic have had to step away from the DPC.
"We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the players, staff, and members who have been a part of this incredible journey, alongside our incredible fanbase who have made our journey in the SEA region so special," said Fnatic in a statement.
The organisation revealed that it is currently hard at work at finding new homes for its existing Dota 2 players and staff before it formally leaves the DPC Tour 2023. This isn't quite the end for Fnatic's current roster, however. The team will represent Fnatic throughout the ongoing BTS Pro Series, after which they will be disbanded - with the organisation promising to assist them as they "explore the next steps in their careers."
Fnatic also made a point of thanking their soon-to-be former Dota 2 roster, which consists of Kim "Gabbi" Santos, Armel "Armel" Tabios, Damien "kpii" Chok, Djardel "DJ" Mampusti and Jaunuel "Jaunuel" Arcilla.
"Thank you Gabbi, Armel, kpii, DJ, & Jaunuel for representing us throughout. We are proud and grateful to be part of your journey and we wish you luck in your next endeavours."
It might be the end for Fnatic's current roster, but the 2023 DPC season shows no sign of slowing down. You can see the full match schedule right here, as we look forward to the Lima Major, taking place from February 22 to March 5. And remember, you can follow along with each match right here on Luckbox - just make sure to claim your free 100% bonus!
