The Valorant Champions Tour: Game Changers (VCT Game Changers), a female-only esports competition, has been hit by controversy once again as a team coach was accused of having sexual relations with underage women. Hanpipe, a well-known Valorant streamer and analyst from Japan, was accused of this offense just days after he joined the Fennel Female team as coach.
The Fennel Female team had recently reorganized its coaching staff, appointing Hanpipe as coach and Rader as analyst, much to the excitement of their fans. However, the Japanese whistleblower Twitter account takigare3 accused Hanpipe of having sexual relations with a minor. Fennel Management conducted an investigation and found the accusations to be true. They terminated Hanpipe’s contract immediately.
Hanpipe later posted a public apology on Twitter and announced his decision to leave esports indefinitely. However, the impact of this scandal is likely to be felt by the Fennel Female team as they prepare for the global tournament. In addition to finding a new coach, they also need to replace two star players who left the team last month.
The controversy is a reminder of the need for organizations to take allegations of sexual misconduct seriously and investigate them promptly. It also highlights the importance of ensuring that those who participate in esports, particularly minors, are protected from harm.
Esports is a rapidly growing industry that has garnered a massive following around the world. However, it is important to remember that esports participants are not immune to the same issues that affect other industries, such as sexual misconduct and abuse. And it’s essential for the VCT Game Changers to take proactive steps to prevent such incidents from happening and to protect women in competitive scene.
