FNATIC has concluded their run at the VCT EMEA 2025 Kickoff, falling to FUT Esports in the third round of the lower bracket. Following the defeat, team manager CoJo reflected on the tournament and shared plans for the future, including the search for a coach and the recovery of Leo.

FNATIC Falls Short of Expectations

Despite securing victories over NAVI and Gentle Mates, FNATIC performance at the tournament fell below expectations. The team aimed to maintain their winning momentum, but losses to BBL Esports and FUT Esports resulted in an early exit.

Manager CoJo commented on the setback via his X (Twitter) page:

That marks the end of our KICK-OFF run. Based on our scrims and yesterday’s match, we expected to build on our success, but we weren’t able to show our full strength. That being said, this team has massive potential. There’s still a lot to improve on, and we will dedicate all our resources to development for the rest of the season.

 

Coaching Struggles and Leo’s Recovery

FNATIC faced difficulties in securing a coach to strengthen the team during the tournament. CoJo admitted that they couldn’t resolve this issue in time for Kickoff:

We tried negotiating with candidates but couldn’t finalize a deal before the event. That’s entirely my fault. Finding a specialist who can support the team in crucial moments will be our top priority next month.

 

He also addressed Leo situation, confirming that the player is still recovering and unable to rejoin the roster:

We’re doing everything we can to support Leo in his recovery. However, it will take some more time before he can return.

 

FNATIC Determined to Stay on the International Stage

FNATIC has long been a dominant force in international tournaments, but their early exit from VCT EMEA 2025 Kickoff puts them in a tough position. CoJo reassured fans that FNATIC has no intention of falling behind:

This is painful and frustrating. We don’t want to get used to missing international events. The season is just starting, and we have a talented and experienced roster. I hope you’ll stay with us on this journey.

 

FNATIC Performance at VCT EMEA 2025 KICK-OFF

Following a triumphant 2024 season—where FNATIC won VCT EMEA 2024 Stage 1 and Stage 2 and competed at VCT 2024 Masters Shanghai and VALORANT Champions 2024—the team entered the new season with a revamped roster, signing kajaak and crashies.

At VCT EMEA 2025 Kickoff, FNATIC managed to defeat NAVI and Gentle Mates but suffered losses to BBL Esports and FUT Esports, finishing in the lower half of the standings. Now, the team will shift their focus to the upcoming stages of the season as they strive to return to the international stage.