Into The Breach(ITB) Announces That it is Leaving Dota 2

Into The Breach (ITB), a prominent UK-based esports entity has unveiled its decision to disband its Dota 2 roster. This announcement follows the discontinuation of the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) season, during which ITB secured a 5th-place finish in DPC WEU 2023 Tour 2: Division 2. 

ITB’s Dota 2 roster at the time of disbandment was:

• Tamás "lowskill" Kaszás

• Ondřej "Supream^" Štarha

• Andreas "Xibbe" Ragnemalm

• Yurii "Merlin" Belkin

• Egor "RESPECT" Procurat

In an official statement released on their website, ITB's CEO, Sam Macedonio, explained the reasons behind this decision, citing key factors.

Valve's Game-Changing Decision: Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) to Conclude in 2023, Paving the Way for a New Era in Dota 2 Esports

Why ITB Disbanded Dota Lineup

Navigating the DPC Transition

One significant factor in ITB's departure is Valve's decision to discontinue the DPC after the 2022/2023 season. This decision has left tier 2 and tier 3 teams in a precarious position, as they grapple with the loss of a stable and predictable source of income and competitive opportunities.

Challenges in Talent Acquisition

Macedonio addressed the organization's struggle to discover and nurture fresh talent within the European Dota 2 arena compared to other regions like North America and South America. He stated that it wasn't sustainable for smaller organizations in Europe.

Fan-Building Hurdles in Dota

Furthermore, Macedonio highlighted the intricate task of cultivating a dedicated fan base within Dota 2, particularly for tier 2 and tier 3 teams. This challenge stems from the game's pronounced dominance by a handful of elite teams such as OG and Secret, prompting fans to hesitate in endorsing teams they perceive as having limited prospects for victory.

Financial Demands for Success

Macedonio emphasized the financial burdens placed on teams seeking success in the European Dota 2 ecosystem, with top-tier teams commanding substantial budgets which smaller organizations like ITB could not match.

We're sad to announce the departure of our Dota roster and the departure of ITB from the Dota 2 ecosystem.

Thanks for everything, and best of luck to the game we'll forever love.

Read more: https://t.co/E4bVzmvL4J#ITBDOTA2 #UpTheKnights pic.twitter.com/fvJq3eevgx

— ITB SHUFFLE (@ITBesports) September 27, 2023

While Macedonio hinted at ITB's potential return to the Dota scene, he affirmed that the current situation didn't align with the organization's European objectives. In the meantime, ITB will focus on supporting its other esports divisions, including CS:GO and Rainbow Six.

Despite challenges, ITB achieved commendable placements in DPC tournaments and developed talented players like Xibbe, Supreme^, Kidaro, and Ari.

ITB's disbandment, following Hydra Esports' dissolution earlier this month, highlights the obstacles faced by tier 2 and tier 3 teams. It will be interesting to see if more organizations follow suit, heading into next year.

Hydra Esports Disbands Dota 2 Roster

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