FlyQuest’s top laner, Gabriel ‘Bwipo’ Rau, faces suspension amid controversy after comments made during a livestream sparked strong reactions across the League of Legends community. The Belgian player admitted his remarks were disrespectful toward women, leading to a suspension that impacts FlyQuest’s crucial LTA Regional Finals matches. This incident underlines ongoing challenges surrounding player conduct in esports and highlights the increasing accountability enforced by organizations like Riot Games.
Details on Bwipo’s Suspension After Controversial Livestream Comments
Bwipo, a veteran of League of Legends esports renowned for his stints with Fnatic and Team Liquid, recently made remarks during a September 9 livestream that many found problematic. He suggested that women’s performance in competitive League of Legends could be affected by menstrual cycles, stating there are times women “should not be playing competitive games.”
- FlyQuest immediately responded by suspending Bwipo for the upcoming LTA Regional Finals match against Vivo Keyd Stars.
- The team condemned the comments as sexist and contrary to their core values of inclusivity.
- Bwipo’s prize money from the event is being redirected to charities supporting women in gaming.
FlyQuest’s swift action and public statement emphasize their commitment to fostering a respectful competitive environment, in line with wider policies advocated by Riot Games across major leagues including the LCS.
Bwipo’s Career Context and Team Impact
Gabriel ‘Bwipo’ Rau has been a significant figure in League of Legends esports for years, playing at the highest level with renowned organizations such as Fnatic, Team Liquid, and now FlyQuest. The team has been a dominant force during 2025, securing victories in LTA North division Split 2 and Split 3, demonstrating strong potential in the increasingly competitive landscape.
- The suspension comes at a critical moment ahead of the LTA Regional Finals, potentially affecting FlyQuest’s chances in the tournament.
- Team leadership and fans alike must now navigate the repercussions of this incident.
- FlyQuest’s core mission to improve representation and inclusivity contrasts starkly with the remarks made.
Community and Influencer Reactions to Sexist Remarks in League of Legends
Notable community members and prominent voices in the League of Legends esports scene quickly criticized Bwipo’s comments. Broadcasters and content creators highlighted the harm such statements can cause within esports culture.
- Eefje ‘Sjokz’ Depoortere labeled the remarks as “dangerous rhetoric,” warning about their negative influence on female competitors.
- Esports caster Isaac ‘Azael’ Cummings-Bentley called the idea of women’s performance being impacted by menstrual cycles as “dumb and dangerous.”
- These reactions reflect a broader push within esports communities, including teams like TSM, Cloud9, G2 Esports, Evil Geniuses, and Thieves, toward greater equality and inclusiveness.
The incident underscores ongoing conversations around behavior standards in esports, with Riot Games maintaining strict regulations on player conduct to preserve the integrity of competitive League of Legends and related leagues worldwide.