PTime, a South American Dota 2 team, was disqualified from the Esports World Cup 2026 on July 15, following provisional suspensions of two key members by the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC). This drastic measure was taken amidst an ongoing investigation into possible violations of the organization’s Anti-Corruption Code and Player Code of Conduct, specifically targeting mid player Oswaldo “DarkMago” Herrera and coach Juan “Vintage” Angulo.

The disqualification stems from integrity concerns that surfaced just a day prior, resulting in the postponement of PTime's scheduled match against Vici Gaming. As the investigation unfolds, the ESIC has clarified that no formal accusations have been made yet. However, the swift actions taken indicate a serious commitment to maintaining the integrity of esports competitions, particularly in light of the increasing scrutiny around potential match-fixing and betting irregularities.

While the specific nature of the alleged breaches remains undisclosed, the esports community has begun to speculate, with theories ranging from match-fixing to betting misconduct. The ESIC has emphasized that these provisional suspensions are precautionary rather than punitive, aimed at preserving evidence and preventing any further integrity issues during the tournament.

PTime's removal from the EWC is significant not only for the team but also for the broader esports ecosystem. As a team that had demonstrated considerable skill and potential in the tournament, their exit shows the precarious nature of competition integrity in a rapidly growing industry. Previously, PTime had made strides in the 2026 group stage, establishing themselves as formidable contenders before the integrity probe derailed their ambitions.

The role of ESIC as the integrity partner for the Esports World Cup cannot be overstated. By enforcing anti-corruption measures, they aim to safeguard the competitive landscape from the damaging effects of corruption and malpractice. The provisional suspensions serve as a vital tool to remove potentially compromised individuals from competition, thereby protecting both the integrity of the event and the players involved.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice.