Zhanna Radiactivebaby, manager of the Natus Vincere Dota 2 roster, reported serious logistical difficulties that could significantly impact the Western European qualifiers for Esports World Cup 2026. Due to scheduling conflicts, several teams are expected to move into the WEU qualification bracket.
Amid community discussions suggesting that PlayTime qualifying for the tournament supposedly made the path easier for Heroic’s former roster, the NAVI manager emphasized that the actual situation is far more complicated.
According to insider information, at least three teams — some of which are scheduled to participate in BLAST Slam VII — are facing difficulties completing the event and returning to their home regions in time for local qualifiers. Because of these logistical challenges, the teams are reportedly planning to compete in the WEU qualifiers instead.
Radiactivebaby stated that these developments could make the battle for qualification spots significantly more chaotic and competitive. Multiple teams from the Americas are expected to participate, including Hokori, while teams from the Asian region may also appear in the European bracket.
As a reminder, Valve recently faced backlash after an advertisement for a LAN tournament in Moscow appeared on the official Team Fortress 2 blog.
