Riot Games Ends Partnership with Talon Esports Over Operational Shortfalls

An unexpected change has taken place within the esports community, sparking conversation about standards and accountability in competitive gaming partnerships.

Riot Games has ended its association with Talon Esports in the Pacific division of the Valorant Champions Tour. The Hong Kong–based organization failed to meet the operational requirements expected of its partners, leaving Riot dissatisfied with their performance and management practices.

According to the statements released, several concerns prompted the decision. Among these issues were:

• Management practices that did not align with league expectations
• Repeated delays in compensating players
• An inability to prove a stable financial foundation necessary for ongoing participation

Despite a month-long effort during which Riot Games worked closely with Talon Esports to remedy these issues, the organization was ultimately unable to fulfill the required standards. As a result, Talon Esports no longer holds its place in the Valorant Champions Tour, and its players are now free to pursue opportunities with other teams within the league.

Riot Games has initiated an application process to identify a replacement team to assume this role in the Pacific division, with further updates expected once the selection is complete.