Ardis “ardiis” Svarenieks was suspended from co-streaming VCT matches after using discriminatory language on broadcast. Riot classifies this as crossing its conduct guidelines, prompting both an official penalty from VALORANT Esports EMEA and a parallel suspension of cooperation from NAVI.
Ardiis has been a familiar face in VCT as a Latvian or British pro turned streamer, and is best known for his time on FunPlus Phoenix and Natus Vincere. In July 2026, he found himself at the centre of controversy when Riot stepped in with a disciplinary ruling, and NAVI publicly cut ties.
What did Riot and NAVI say about the suspension?
The VALORANT Esports EMEA official statement states that disciplinary action has been taken against Ardiis over his conduct during VCT co-streams.
— VALORANT Esports EMEA (@vct_emea) July 23, 2026
“Ardis “Ardiis” Svarenieks violated Riot Games’ Terms of Service through the use of discriminatory and offensive language during a co-stream. Riot Games does not tolerate discriminatory conduct or language of any kind, including conduct targeting an individual’s race, ethnicity, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, nationality, or any other protected characteristic.”
Soon after Riot’s statement went live, NAVI VALORANT posted a separate, direct response. According to Riot’s co-stream guidelines, open watch parties still fall under the same expectations for conduct as official broadcasts, including bans on discriminatory or hateful language.
NAVI explicitly called this “discriminatory conduct or language of any kind” and stated that such behaviour “should never be tolerated.”
We respect and fully support Riot Games' decision.
— NAVI Valorant (@NAVIValorant) July 23, 2026
There is a line that should never be crossed, and discriminatory conduct or language of any kind should never be tolerated.
Effective immediately, NAVI is suspending its cooperation with Ardiis. https://t.co/zeY3qpqxZU
How long will he be suspended?
VCT EMEA’s tweet says he will be suspended through Aug. 19. They said, “Any future violations may result in additional disciplinary action, up to and including permanent loss of rights to co-stream VCT.”
During this time, he can’t run watch parties using the tournament feed. NAVI’s decision also affects his status as a branded streamer, ultimately cutting off official support, promotions, and likely any contracted co-streaming rights.
This incident shows that breaking Riot’s rules also means losing access to co-stream rights, even if that person is a former pro or partnered streamer. Those who build their brand around watch parties should treat Riot’s guidelines as something to follow always. At the same time, they need to keep moderation tight and avoid language that could reasonably be viewed as discriminatory or harmful.
Will Ardiis return to co-streaming?
Since it’s a month-long suspension and not a permanent ban, Ardiis could path back to co-streaming once the disciplinary period ends. What that looks like will depend on whether Riot re-authorizes co-stream rights and whether NAVI chooses to resume cooperation or keep him at arm’s length.
In the meantime, do check out the action taking place in other regions, specifically VCT Americas and Pacific Stage 2.
