Fog Esports is under fire after allegations emerged that its League of Legends roster went unpaid for several months, leading players to threaten a forfeit at the EMEA Masters tournament.
Players and staff claim they did not receive payment throughout April and May 2025, despite repeated attempts to resolve the issue. Coach Gerard ‘Jayrad’ Blasi stated that the team raised concerns in early May, but the organisation cited delays due to a pending partnership deal. Weeks of back-and-forth followed, with management offering verbal assurances and eventually setting a June 15 payment deadline in writing.
That deadline has since passed, with only half of the promised salaries paid, leaving players still owed months of compensation.
Riot Games Informed, Players Pressured
By the end of May, the unresolved salary dispute led the players to threaten to forfeit their EMEA Masters matches, pressuring the organisation to act. Riot Games MENA was reportedly informed, though the developer has not publicly commented on the matter. Despite the financial uncertainty, the players chose to compete after being promised two months’ pay — a promise that has only been partially fulfilled.
Coach Jayrad opted not to participate in the tournament, while the roster went on to defeat Colossal Gaming in the group stage before being eliminated by Karmine Corp Blue and ULF Esports.
Broader Concerns for the Industry
While issues with unpaid salaries are common in semi-professional esports, this case has attracted particular attention due to Fog Esports’ registration with the government-backed Saudi Esports Federation. The situation raises concerns about oversight and support for smaller organisations under such federations.
As of now, players remain unpaid for several months, and the organisation’s failure to meet its own deadline has left the future of its League of Legends roster in question.
More:Wolves Esports secures £20m
Read
Source Editing
Visual Editing
Related news
