GIANTX, Fnatic, Natus Vincere, Team Heretics, and Team Vitality have discussions with Vladi
Vladimiros "Vladi" Kourtidis is in the middle of an uncertain offseason. According to sources, the Greek midlaner has been allowed to explore opportunities outside of Karmine Corp as the organization evaluates other options for the 2026 season.
Multiple options
Several LEC teams have already expressed interest or inquired about Vladi and his buyout. Vladi remains under contract with Karmine Corp until the end of 2027, meaning any move would require negotiations over a buyout fee. Still, signs point to him likely finding a new home in the coming year.
Among teams that have shown interest in Vladi are Team Heretics, Team Vitality, GIANTX, NAVI, and Fnatic. Teams from the LCS also have Vladi on their lists, but with lower priority. Still, even to LEC teams, acquiring Vladi remains a complicated task, and some of them will likely keep their midlaner if they are unable to secure the Greek midlaner.
Vladi is therefore the key domino of this offseason — the team he joins will likely trigger a cascade of roster moves across the scene. That doesn’t mean other changes are on hold until then; for instance, Karmine Corp can lock in their solo laners at any time, and SK Gaming are already fielding a different lineup. Still, Vladi’s situation is currently putting much of the offseason on pause, particularly when it comes to the mid lane position.
The end of the rollercoaster
This development comes after a turbulent year for Karmine Corp. Following a historic Winter Split win, the Blue Wall failed to maintain that same level of performance, finishing third in Spring before missing Worlds qualification after a Summer Split exit against Fnatic.
Vladi joined Karmine Corp in early 2024, initially competing with the academy team before earning a promotion to the LEC roster and helping secure the organization’s first-ever LEC title. If his departure is confirmed, he would leave behind a mixed but impactful legacy within the French organization.
Header Photo Credit: Wojciech Wandzel/Riot Games
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