Fnatic Allows In-Game Leader Boaster to Explore Options for VCT 2027

Esports organization Fnatic has officially authorized its longtime Valorant In-Game Leader (IGL), Jake ‘Boaster’ Howlett, to explore opportunities with other teams ahead of the VCT EMEA 2027 season. While Boaster confirmed that he remains in talks with Fnatic, he announced on social media that he is open to offers from all competitive regions, highlighting EMEA and China in particular.

The move comes as part of a broader roster assessment for Fnatic. After a highly successful 2025 season where the squad qualified for every international tournament and advanced to the Valorant Champions final, the team struggled significantly in 2026, failing to qualify for any international events. In a statement addressing the offseason plans, Fnatic’s management conceded that “changes are needed” and confirmed they have given multiple players permission to seek other opportunities.

Currently, Boaster is the only member of the team to publicly announce he is seeking new offers, though several contracts are set to expire this year. Along with Boaster, players Austin ‘crashies’ Robert, Emir ‘Alfajer’ Beder, and Sylvain ‘Veqaj’ Pattyn are all nearing the end of their current agreements. Boaster previously indicated that crashies would be departing the organization. Meanwhile, Veqaj, who has been sidelined since VCT EMEA Stage 1 due to health issues, recently stated his intention to return to active competition.

Should Boaster depart, speculation points to Kirill ‘Cloud’ Nekhozhin as a potential successor for the IGL position. Cloud, who previously captained GIANTX, was signed by Fnatic to a three-year contract in June following the departure of Clément ‘CyvOph’ Millard to Natus Vincere.