:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/64800197/48235695566_1d527d8ddd_k.0.jpg)
Echo Fox is selling its LCS spot and will be replaced by a new team after the summer split ends.
In April, Rick Fox alleged another shareholder, Amit Raizada, had used racial slurs directed at him and other members of Echo Fox. [Fox vs. Raizada, case No. 19STCV34802, filed Sept. 30, 2019, in Los Angeles Superior Court; Scribd version.] Following an investigation, Riot Games stepped in and announced that the organization would have to “remove any individuals whose actions violate League rules and agreements” within 60 days. After 60 days, and a eight-day extension, Echo Fox failed to remove Raizada and will sell its LCS slot.
[Ed. Note: We’ve updated this story after learning that Echo Fox and investor Amit Raizada have apparently settled a defamation lawsuit filed by Raizada which included a finding by the court that certain statements made by members of Echo Fox against Raizada, including allegations of racism, were defamatory. (Raizada v. Echo Fox, case No. 2020-001052-CA-01, filed Feb. 18, 2020, in the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida)]
According to a report by ESPN, the spot is being sold to Kroenke Sports & Entertainment for $30.25 million. This company is known in the esports scene for its Overwatch League team, the LA Gladiators. It also used to have a team in the LCS before franchising: Phoenix1.
We have reached out to Echo Fox for a comment and will update the story when the organization responds.