The Argentine team BESTIA will not participate in the BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025. The tournament organizer, BLAST, announced that the team would be replaced by Legacy — the squad that lost to BESTIA in the South American qualifier. The decision sparked backlash in the community, but BLAST stated that BESTIA failed to meet key visa-related requirements.
Why BESTIA Lost Their Spot at the Major
BLAST reported that BESTIA failed to provide confirmation of approved visas by the deadline — Wednesday, May 21st, at 12:00 PM Brasília time. After the initial visa denial, the team allegedly stopped responding to communications from the tournament operator.
Only on the morning of the deadline did the team inform BLAST that two players — tomaszin and luchov — had emergency visa interviews scheduled at the consulate. However, the actual visas were expected to be issued only on Monday or Tuesday of the following week. Since the team only confirmed interviews, not approved visas, BLAST determined that the requirements had not been met.
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As a result, BESTIA’s slot was handed to Legacy, who had already prepared their documentation and promptly confirmed readiness to participate. This decision was approved by Valve.
BESTIA Criticizes BLAST’s Communication
Team manager Rodrigo “pino” Manarino stated that the official rulebook did not specify a clear deadline. According to him, BLAST initially requested that visas be submitted “as soon as possible,” and only later communicated the specific date of May 21st. On the day of the deadline, BESTIA asked for an extension, but BLAST declined the request.
Pino also promised to release the organization’s full position later.
Other Issues
A similar situation arose with FlyQuest: one of their core players has yet to obtain a visa, although he completed his interview. However, the team’s substitute player already holds a valid visa.
Conclusion
The situation with BESTIA once again highlights the challenges and importance of timely visa processing in esports. Despite public support for the team, BLAST stood by its decision, citing adherence to rules and the responsibility of teams to prepare accordingly. Legacy, who did not qualify initially, will now take their place at the Major thanks to their readiness.
Source: dust2.com.br
