SPUNJ: “In 2027, BLAST may face problems due to its rivalry with PGL.”
Commentator Chad “SPUNJ” Burchill, on the HLTV Confirmed podcast, reflected on the rivalry between BLAST and PGL over top teams’ participation in their tournaments and audience attention, and also criticized the Danish organization’s decision to film content outside of matches.
On the Rivalry Between PGL and BLAST
The invites for PGL Bucharest 2027 were recently announced. The tournament will feature all teams from the top 14 of the VRS—Falcons, Spirit, Vitality, MOUZ, FURIA, and others. This will deal a significant blow to BLAST, which is hosting an event on the same dates. Fortunately for BLAST, NAVI, Liquid, and FaZe—who have fallen out of the top ranks—will likely travel to Malta.
An interesting situation is now beginning to unfold. In 2027, BLAST may face problems due to a scheduling conflict with PGL—their event schedules will frequently overlap. Based on announcements from tournament organizers, things will get even worse in 2028.
On BLAST’s Content
In my opinion, BLAST’s biggest mistake in recent years has been its attempt to create content. The quality of its product is so low that the organization is simply wasting time and resources. It should focus on what it does best—flawless broadcasts. The specialists responsible for replays, highlights, and camera angles during matches do their job better than anyone else on the pro scene. I don’t understand why BLAST decided to get involved in a content battle with other tournament operators. Without truly talented directors and scriptwriters, there’s nothing to be done in this field.
Earlier on the podcast, Chad “SPUNJ” Burchill identified the main problem with the Asian VRS ranking and proposed options for changing the Major qualification system for teams from that region, taking the current situation into account.
Photo by Tyler Grenfell, ESL.
