Virtus.pro out of ESL Pro League over immigration issue

Field Level Media|published: Sat 27th September, 13:47 2025

Jan 28, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Virtus.Pro on stage at the ELEAGUE MAJOR Semi Finals at the Fox Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Freeman/Turner Sports via Imagn Images

Virtus.pro will miss the upcoming ESL Pro League Season 22 in Stockholm, Sweden, after running into visa problems at the border.

The Russian Counter-Strike 2 team said immigration officials raised concerns about the medical insurance for three of its players.

"While new insurance policies were promptly arranged, by that time the decision to deny entry had already been made, and the players' visas were revoked," the team posted Saturday on X.

"We have engaged a local attorney specializing in migration law to appeal the ruling of the border authorities and resolve the situation. This process, however, is expected to take some time."

The $400,000 tournament begins on Sunday and runs through Oct. 12, with a top prize of $100,000. Organizers announced that Virtus.pro will be replaced by ENCE.

"We regret that our fans will not be able to see the team compete at this event and sincerely thank you for your support during this difficult moment," Virtus.pro posted.

--Field Level Media