Evil Geniuses (EG) will cease its competitive and day-to-day operations on November 2, 2026, bringing an end to a 27-year run in esports. The North American organization announced the decision on October 20, citing limited sponsorship opportunities and rising competition costs as major challenges.
Evil Geniuses Cites Financial Challenges
According to CEO Chris DeAppolonio, the organization had spent recent years rebuilding its operations, improving public sentiment, expanding into new esports titles, and growing its creator roster. However, the wider esports industry's financial pressures have made it difficult to sustain the business.
Despite continued investment and efforts to establish a sustainable future, EG concluded that it could no longer operate responsibly under the current conditions.
The organization plans to wind down its operations in an orderly manner while working with affected players, coaches, and staff members.
What Happens to EG's Players and Staff?
Evil Geniuses has confirmed that players across all its competitive rosters are free to speak with other organizations following the announcement. Its VALORANT players and coaches will be eligible to sign with new teams after the 2026 season concludes on November 2.
DeAppolonio has also encouraged esports organizations and other employers to consider hiring EG's players, creators, and staff. He offered to provide recommendations to help affected individuals find new opportunities in the coming months.
The announcement leaves the organization's current roster members and employees facing a transition as EG prepares to close its competitive operations.
A 27-Year Legacy in Esports
Founded in 1999, Evil Geniuses became one of North America's most recognizable esports organizations, competing across titles including Dota 2, VALORANT, Counter-Strike, League of Legends, and fighting games.
Among its most significant achievements were winning The International 2015 in Dota 2 and VALORANT Champions 2023. The organization also won the 2022 League of Legends Championship Series Spring title and the 2018 Call of Duty World League Championship.
Its championship-winning rosters and prominent players helped establish EG as a major name across multiple competitive gaming communities.
The shutdown marks the end of a significant chapter in esports history, as one of the industry's longest-running organizations prepares to step away from competition amid ongoing financial challenges.