Elisa Esports Bans Russian-Based Teams from Upcoming Events

Following BLAST Premier's decision to ban the Russian-owned esports team from its upcoming events, Elisa Esports has decided to do the same. Elisa Esports has suspended the participation of Russian-owned teams for all the upcoming tournaments. The Finnish esports organizer becomes the second organization to restrict Russian teams from participating in the events.

Elisa Esports is a well-known name in the competitive esports scene. Notably, it hosts CS: GO events like Elisa Invitational and more. Several Russian teams like BIG, Gambit Esports, FURIA, and more have frequently been a part of these tournaments.

Image via Gambit Esports

And now, the organizers have suspended the participation of Russian-owned teams to show their support for Ukraine. For all the upcoming events, teams owned by Russian organizations will not be allowed to take part. Last year, the popular Russian team Gambit Esports made it to the semifinals. However, this time around, the team won't be a participant.

This comes after Russia's invasion of Ukraine last week. The ongoing conflict between the two countries has increased tensions. Under “special military operation” ordered by President Putin, Russian forces continue to invade regions of Ukraine.

In their tweet, Elisa Esports stated,

“As a support for Ukraine, all Russian-owned organizations are suspended from participation in Elisa Esports tournaments until further notice.”

As a support for Ukraine, all Russian-owned organizations are suspended from participation in Elisa Esports tournaments until further notice.#StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/PbdcznugIh

— Elisa Esports (@ElisaEsports) March 2, 2022

The Finnish organizer is not the first one to impose restrictions on Russian esports teams. A few days ago, BLAST Premier prohibited Russian-based esports organizations from participating in their CS: GO events. The CIS event, which was scheduled for March 25, has also been called off.

As the conflict rages on, more and more esports organizations are calling off or postponing events. If the current situation prevails, we are likely to see more organizers temporarily ban Russian teams.

You might be interested in: BLAST Premier Bans Russian CS: GO Teams and Cancels CIS Event