ESIC has banned Vintage from competition for life and DarkMago for 5 years
The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) announced that it has permanently blacklisted Juan David “Vintage” Angulo Nicho and suspended Oswaldo Gonzalo “DarkMago” Osvaldo Gonzalo “DarkMago” Herrera Martinez from competition for five years.
It is noted that they have been informed of their right to appeal. Vintage was found guilty on the following counts:
- Corruption through collusion and an attempt to manipulate the Team Liquid series — Article 2.1.1 of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
- Agreement to accept a bribe or other compensation for improper influence—Article 2.1.3 of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
- Inciting, inducing, persuading, or assisting another participant—Article 2.1.4 of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
- Failure to disclose a corrupt proposal or facts or circumstances indicating corrupt conduct—Articles 2.4.4 and 2.4.5 of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code.
- Dishonesty, violation of the principles of good faith, and failure to disclose information—Articles 2.5.1, 2.5.2, and 2.5.3 of the ESIC Code of Conduct.
- Failure to cooperate fully and provide truthful, complete information—Article 4.3 of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code, Article 6.4 of the ESIC Code of Conduct.
According to the commission, Vintage agreed to a financial reward for PlayTime’s 0–2 loss to Team Liquid in the group stage of the 2026 Dota 2 Esports World Cup, but did not receive it because the series ended in a draw. The fact of collusion and the attempt at manipulation were deemed sufficient grounds for suspension.
In DarkMago’s case, the ESIC points to his participation in discussions about match-fixing and his awareness of corrupt behavior, as well as his failure to report the violations that occurred. However, no charges of actively manipulating results or agreeing to accept compensation have been brought against him. His suspension from competition will expire on July 13, 2031, and includes the time since his provisional suspension.
The suspension prohibits participation in tournaments affiliated with ESIC as starting or substitute players, coaches, analysts, managers, team staff, or support personnel.
Another investigation by the commission is currently underway—this time involving former LGD Gaming mid-laner Santiago Gustavo “TaiLung” Olivosa Agüero. The player was barred from The International 2026 and is prohibited from participating in future PGL tournaments. The esports player has denied the allegations.
Photo by Sebastian Pandelache, SC PGL Esports S.R.L.
