Vladislav “Krad” Kravchenko, rifler for 9Pandas, has been suspended for two weeks from the ESL Challenger League (ECL) Season 49: Europe after using a skin deemed offensive during a match on January 21.
ESL Suspends Krad Over Offensive Skin
The incident came to light when Ludvig “quacke” Nilsson, a podcaster and writer, highlighted the issue on X (formerly Twitter). Krad’s Desert Eagle skin featured a combination of stickers that formed an obscene and offensive word. The community response was swift and critical, prompting ESL to take disciplinary action.
Krad’s Response and 9Pandas’ Statement
Before ESL confirmed the suspension, Krad addressed the situation on his X account. He explained that he had recently purchased the skin and was unaware of the offensive stickers because he plays with a left-handed model, which reflects the skin’s appearance.
Following this, 9Pandas issued an official apology in Russian, emphasizing that the incident was unintentional. The organization acknowledged a lapse in pre-match checks and promised to improve their processes. They also stated that Krad removed the skin immediately after realizing its nature and expressed regret for his actions.
To avoid future incidents, 9Pandas plans to implement enhanced pre-match monitoring protocols and provide additional training to their players.
Impact on 9Pandas
Krad’s suspension is a significant setback for 9Pandas as they continue their campaign in the ECL Season 49. The team has already announced that Anton “tonyblack” Kolesnikov will step in as Krad’s temporary replacement.
A Reminder for Esports Standards
This incident underscores the growing need for vigilance and professionalism in esports. As the industry continues to expand, maintaining ethical standards is crucial. 9Pandas’ proactive approach in addressing the issue and committing to better training protocols serves as an example for other organizations.
Final Toughts
Krad’s suspension also highlights the importance of accountability at both the player and organizational levels, reinforcing that even minor oversights can have significant consequences in a highly visible competitive environment.
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