Riot Suspends Valorant Streamer Ardiis From VCT Co-Streaming Over Discriminatory Language

Ardis "ardiis" Svarenieks has been suspended from co-streaming VCT matches after using discriminatory language during a broadcast, with Riot Games' VALORANT Esports EMEA issuing an official penalty and NAVI separately suspending its cooperation with the streamer.

In its statement, VALORANT Esports EMEA said Ardiis "violated Riot Games' Terms of Service through the use of discriminatory and offensive language during a co-stream," adding that Riot does not tolerate conduct targeting race, ethnicity, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion or nationality.

NAVI, the org Ardiis is best known for representing after previous stints with FunPlus Phoenix, responded by saying it fully supports Riot's decision and confirmed it is suspending its cooperation with him effective immediately, cutting off his branded streamer status and associated promotions.

The suspension runs through Aug. 19, and Riot has warned that any future violations may result in additional disciplinary action, up to and including permanent loss of rights to co-stream VCT, meaning Ardiis' return will depend on both Riot re-authorizing his co-stream rights and NAVI's willingness to resume the partnership.

Off-broadcast storylines like this rarely move betting lines directly, but they're a reminder for fans following Playdash's VCT markets that off-field conduct and sponsorship status can still shape the wider narrative around the teams and personalities they back.