DFM respond to backlash from fans after last-minute Valorant roster changes
Riot GamesDFM has responded to fan backlash about its last-minute Valorant roster change and clarified its recent business dealings with another esports organization.
DetonatioNFocus Me has not had the best start to its Valorant esports journey as its VCT Pacific team went winless in 2023. The team did not win a match during league play, losing nine straight matches, and also failed to win at VCT LOCK//IN and the off-season tournament Riot ONE.
The organization retooled its roster during the off-season, bringing in a new coaching staff and the former core of CrazyRaccoon in November 2023. DFM also announced at that time that it had entered into a business partnership with CR.
However, the Japanese organization announced a slew of last-minute changes to its roster on February 5, 2024, dropping one of its veteran players and coach in favor of more CrazyRaccoon staff. Fans were unhappy with the sudden change and also wanted to know more about this business partnership between the two companies.
DFM respond to fans on social media
DFM posted a statement responding to the backlash on February 8, noting that it hears what fans are saying and accepts it.
“The announcement made before the VCT Pacific Kickoff was the result of multiple discussions with the coaching staff and players within the team after trying various things and thoughtful deliberation. The strength of our new roster lies in precise teamwork and the speed of in-game adjustments… We sincerely accept the criticism and reaffirm our commitment to providing maximum support as a team to achieve results in VCT Pacific 2024,” the statement said.
The VCT Pacific Kickoff tournament starts on February 17, so the team has less than a month before taking the stage for the first time in 2024.
The organization also addressed its relationship with Crazy Raccoon, saying the business arrangement is for “promotional activities, merchandise development, and event management.”
DFM further stated that the players are a part of DMF and team management is all conducted by the organization.
Fans, so far, have not been sympathetic towards the team, as some have pointed out how dropping players right before the season impacts their ability to play in VCT. The Japanese organization will have to start winning games if it wants fans back on its side after its disastrous 2023 season and off-season.
