Sources - VALORANT: Verno Set to Remain with MIBR for the VCT Americas 2026 Season

Made in Brazil (MIBR) continue to shape its roster for the 2026 VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT) Americas season. As previously reported by Sheep Esports, the Brazilian organization has already secured two key players for the upcoming year — its superstar Erick “aspas” Santos, and a high-profile addition that stirred major attention across social media: Zachary “zekken” Patrone.

To round out this explosive duelist duo, MIBR have also locked in a returning piece of their 2025 core. According to sources close to Sheep Esports and as previously reported by Bruno Povoleri from TheSpike.GG, Andrew “Verno” Maust has reached a verbal agreement to extend his stay with the Brazilian organization. Much like aspas, the American In-Game Leader will continue under the blue banner for a second consecutive season.

MIBR secure one of the most crucial roles within any team by keeping their In-Game Leader. It’s a demanding position that not every player can shoulder — but despite being only 19 years old, Verno has already established himself as one of the youngest and most promising IGLs across all VCT leagues. His leadership has proven effective, making it clear why MIBR wanted to keep him. Beyond his calling, Verno has also stood out as a reliable Initiator, delivering strong performances both in the VCT Americas and at Champions 2025.

Interestingly, Verno’s 2025 season didn’t start with MIBR. The American Initiator began the year under NRG’s banner, the eventual World Champions, finishing 7th–8th at the Kickoff event — a result that led to roster changes within NRG.

Verno then found new life with MIBR, joining in time for Stage 1, where he helped the team finish 3rd and qualify for Masters Toronto. However, MIBR didn’t perform as expected in Canada with a 11th–12th finish. The team didn’t find the momentum back — the squad later finished 9th–10th in Stage 2, falling short of expectations. With this finish, MIBR didn’t have their fate in their hands. Luckily, their earlier success and accumulated Championship Points were enough to secure them a slot at the Champions in Paris, thanks to a positive Playoffs scenario for them.

Once in France, MIBR defied expectations. The Brazilian side delivered an impressive showing, finishing 5th–6th after taking down teams like Bilibili Gaming, Rex Regum Qeon, and Team Heretics. Alongside aspas, Verno was a standout performer throughout the event, posting notable stats — including a 1.15 K:D ratio (#8 overall) and a 76% KAST (#=7).

With aspas, Verno, and zekken currently locked in according to our sources, MIBR’s ambitions for 2026 are crystal clear. The Brazilian organization aims to finally reach the summit — and claim the first major title in its VALORANT history. On paper, this roster looks capable of not just challenging for domestic glory, but contending internationally as well.

Verno will remain a key component in this pursuit — whether through his sharp fragging, his great Sova, or his ability to lead one of the most promising and awaited Duelist duos in the world.