Levius Takes a Break Due to Mental Health Issues

Chinese VALORANT player Lu "Levius" Yinchong has announced a temporary departure from the professional scene, citing psychological issues and a decline in form. This decision came as an unexpected blow to Bilibili Gaming just before the VCT CN Kickoff 2026, where the team had just promoted rookie bud to the main roster.

Levius's Path to the Top

Levius joined BLG as a substitute in September 2023 and became an integral part of the main lineup in 2024 alongside whzy, Knight, nephh, and rushia. The team, competing under the Bilibili Gaming tag, gained momentum: third place at the VCT CN Kickoff, second in Stage 1 (qualifying for Masters Toronto and Esports World Cup), and a championship at the Stage 2 Finals in Chongqing. However, in international tournaments, Bilibili Gaming did not shine: 9th-10th place at the Masters Toronto, 9th-12th place at the Esports World Cup 2025, and 13th-16th place at the VALORANT Champions Paris 2025. The player visited Beijing, Toronto, Riyadh, Chongqing, and Paris, earning approximately $19,813 in prize money.

Details of the Announcement and Reasons for the Pause

On January 13, 2026, Levius posted on Bilibili, announcing a "pause" before the VCT CN Kickoff (starting January 25), where BLG will face the winner of All Gamers vs Nova Esports. In the statement, he noted: "Lately, I've been experiencing mental issues and a decline in competitive form. To better prepare for matches and not let the team and fans down, I'm hitting pause and seeking answers." Despite weak statistics, Levius emphasized: "This is not the end of my career, I hope to return in better form." The team is already testing a rotation with academy player bud at the winter camp.

Levius's departure adds to BLG's instability ahead of the Kickoff, where they risk an early exit without a strong duelist. For the scene, it's a signal about mental health: successful teams like EDG dominate, and BLG might need to restructure their roster after the tournament. Levius's return could save the 2026 season, but for now, the focus is on surviving the playoffs.