Riot Games has indefinitely removed French esports organisation DVM from the VALORANT Challengers France esports circuit.
The decision, which was announced on the league’s official social media today, follows a situation in which there was a physical conflict between fans during DVM’s match against Joblife on April 8th.
According to a report by Ensigame, DVM supporters started to verbally provoke Joblife fans until the situation escalated into physical violence. The local police intervened, escorting the involved DVM fans out of the venue.
Moreover, the match between DVM and Joblife was cancelled. The following day, tournament organiser Webedia disqualified DVM from the remainder of Challengers 2025 France: Revolution Stage 2.
However, the latest update confirmed that the organisation has been removed from the entire Challengers France circuit, effective today.
“This decision follows a series of incidents concerning the DVM organisation’s failure to maintain the values and professional standards we expect from all league participants and fans,” explained the tournament organiser in the announcement.
“Our goal is to foster an environment that prioritises fair competition, respect between different stakeholders and a high level of professionalism in all respects.”
Webedia further highlighted DVM’s lack of appropriate communication in light of the recent incident: “Despite multiple discussions and opportunities to align with our expectations, the DVM organisation has exhibited behaviour that does not reflect the responsibility and conduct required in our league.”
DVM’s Response
DVM is yet to issue an official statement regarding today’s removal from Challengers France. However, the organisation’s founders have previously denied any direct involvement with the physical conflict.
On April 10th, Founder ‘DVMEDJA’ shared a detailed statement via his personal X (formerly Twitter) account where he condommed any unprofessional behaviour and emphasised the good ambitions of his organisation.
He also commented on the initial disqualification from Stage 2, promising to seek out further discussions with the league: “As for the sanction, I find it unfair. I feel it was imposed under pressure from the Twitter tribunal, in the heat of the moment, without anyone listening to us. We would have liked to prove that we understood and move forward.”
DVMEDJA continued: “I will contact the league to discuss and find solutions. I am also available to speak with any organisation. And I want to sincerely apologise to everyone who was disappointed, shocked, or impacted by all this. None of what happened was intended.”
What Happens to the DVM Players?
While several esports community members have supported Riot’s response to the DVM incident, some expressed concerns regarding unjust consequences for the organisation’s players.
“If only there was an option that punished the org and not the players,” posted esports on-air talent Jessica ‘Jess’ Bolden.
However, according to today’s decision, the current DVM players are allowed to continue competing in the Challengers France ecosystem under conditions approved by the league. The players must either be part of an independent team or a new organisation that is not affiliated with DVM.
