In an unexpected turn of events, NAVI finds itself in hot water after a player's use of the smokeless tobacco product Snus during the Valorant Champions tournament. The repercussions for this action led to NAVI losing a crucial timeout, significantly impacting their gameplay dynamics.
The unfortunate incident took place during NAVI's match against DRX, where they narrowly lost 2-1 in the winner's match for their group at Valorant Champions. The penalty was swiftly administered on the first map of the series, specifically during their match on Bind. This surprising turn of events was caused by one of NAVI's players utilizing Snus, leading to the timeout loss and potential consequences on their performance.
Erik ‘d00mbr0s’ Sandgren, NAVI's head coach, confirmed the incident through a tweet that has since been deleted, adding an air of authenticity to the situation.
The popularity of Snus, a smokeless tobacco product, has been on the rise in Europe in recent years. Its presence has also made an appearance in other sports, notably the Premier League, where players discreetly make use of powdered tobacco pouches by placing them behind their upper lips, even during matches and training sessions.
Interestingly, this isn't the first instance of Snus finding its way into the esports scene. Reports from Dot Esports have highlighted how some players in the League of Legends European Championship have resorted to Snus and other substances to combat burnout and address mental health issues during competitive play.
As of now, Riot Games has yet to issue an official statement or ruling regarding the penalty imposed on NAVI. However, based on the 2023 VCT ruleset, the use of tobacco and nicotine products is strictly prohibited in the Match Area.
The response to this incident has been mixed, with several Valorant players taking a lighthearted approach to the situation. Giants Gaming IGL Emir “rhyme” Muminovic remarked, "Snus being treated like it’s a hard drug," in a playful retort to NAVI's head coach.
Even Team Liquid’s Saif ‘Sayf’ Jibraeel contributed to the banter, jesting that he would quit using Snus if it meant avoiding penalties. "If you snus you get disqualified. Time to quit my addiction, FROM THIS DAY ONWARDS I WILL BE SNUS FREE," he humorously declared.
Responses from fellow coaches in the Valorant scene also added to the playful atmosphere. NRG’s head coach, Chet ‘Chet’ Singh, couldn't help but join in, quipping, "What about cigarettes? I have about three packs for tomorrow."
As the tournament progresses, NAVI will have to navigate the challenges ahead without the benefit of a timeout. Their upcoming match in the group’s decider, scheduled for August 12, will determine their fate in the competition. Facing off against either Team Liquid or LOUD, NAVI will fight to secure their spot as the final team to advance from Group D.
