Sanctioned Russian Esports Club Blames "Cancel Culture" For Its ESL Pro League Ban

thegamer.com:

Earlier this week, the ESL announced that it was pausing all competitions in the CIS Region, had cut ties with its Russian affiliates, and barred all Russian teams from competing in future events. This was all in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its horrific attacks on Ukrainian cities.

Only two teams were mentioned as being barred from competition for their ties to the Russian government: Virtus.pro and Gambit. Today, Virtus.pro has released its own statement calling the ban an example of "cancel culture" and denying any connection with the Russian government or its officials.

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"On March 2nd, ESL notified us that Virtus.pro and Gambit Esports have been withdrawn from ESL Pro League Season 15. It was shortly after ESL requested our club to share the legal and financial information with them: country of registration, ownership and partners details, and whether or not our affiliates are subjected to sanctions," wrote Virtus.pro in a statement. "We replied with a full and comprehensive response, backed up by all the necessary paperwork."

Virtus.pro stated that the documents they provided confirmed no links to the Russian government. However, Vitrus.pro was told in private communications with ESL organizers that because they "make the impression" of being a Russian team, they were being barred from competition.

"We can't tolerate this kind of behavior. There are no rational reasons to suspend us from playing in tournaments, apart from prejudice and pressure from the outside. It happened in Dubai with a WePlay event, and it keeps on happening.”

In its communication, the ESL noted that Virtus.pro players would be able to compete under a neutral