BLAST responds to BESTIA Visa controversy ahead of CS2 Austin major
The controversy erupted after the Argentinian team was disqualified due to unresolved visa issues for two of its players. As the story unfolded, I followed the matter closely and was surprised by how quickly tensions escalated.
Missed Deadline and Valve Approval
According to an official statement from BLAST published via Esports Insider, BESTIA failed to meet the May 21st visa confirmation deadline. The organizer explained that the deadline was 5:00 PM CEST, but at that time, players Martín 'tomaszin' Corna and Luciano 'luchov' Herrera did not yet have valid visas. BLAST added that the decision to exclude BESTIA and replace them had been confirmed by Valve. As expected, this decision did not please fans and some community members.
BESTIA Responds Online
Immediately after the replacement was announced, BESTIA responded strongly on social media. The team insisted that its players would have visas before the start of the first stage of the tournament on June 3. In a subsequent post, BESTIA accused BLAST of ignoring communication and confirmed that all required documentation had been completed.
This stance received widespread support. One of the most prominent supporters was Ilya 'M0NESY' Osipov, a well-known CS2 star, who publicly questioned the validity of the decision.
Legacy to Participate in Austin
Despite the public outcry, BLAST stood by its decision. It confirmed that Legacy Esports will officially replace BESTIA. Legacy is scheduled to face Chinese team Lynn Vision in the opening round.
So far, BLAST has shown no intention of reversing its decision. Its position appears clear: only confirmed visas count toward scheduled interviews or goodwill.
BLAST clarifies timeline
In its statement, BLAST said it remained in contact with BESTIA throughout the visa process. A representative stated, "We provided numerous follow-ups, support, and updated invitation letters." He added that, as of the May 21 deadline, the required visas had not yet been issued.
According to the organizer, BESTIA informed the organizer at 1:20 PM CEST that visas could be obtained by May 26 or 27, following emergency interviews scheduled for May 22 and 23.
However, BLAST responded that these were merely interview dates, not confirmed visas. Therefore, the team does not meet the tournament requirements.
What's next?
Interestingly, BESTIA CEO Alejandro 'PapoMC' Lococo hinted at new developments. He announced on social media that "very important information" would be released on May 22.
While the outcome may not change for Austin, the full story is still emerging. I will continue to follow BESTIA's next revelations. Meanwhile, the debate within the community continues as to whether the decision was fair - or hasty.
Mehdi Belhamra – Esports and Gaming writer
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