Gambit Esports players to compete in the Valorant Champions Tour as an independent team

Following the sanctions put in place due to the conflict in Ukraine, the Russian esports organisation Gambit Esports has now released a statement revealing that it intends to let its Valorant players compete in the Valorant Champions Tour as part of an independent team.

"This continues to be a very difficult time for everyone, not least all of us with family and friends living in Ukraine. During this time, esports can continue to serve fans from many different countries and cultures - and we sincerely wish for tournaments to continue and players to focus on competition and sportsmanship," said Gambit in the statement.

"We've therefore taken the decision to empower our players, Edgar, Chronicle, d3ffo, Sheydos and nAts, to take part in the upcoming VCT Competition as an independent team. We wish them and all other players luck in the competition, and thank the fans for their continued support of the roster."

Riot has yet to officially announce when Stage 2 of the VCT will start this season.