ESL has moved OpTic Gaming from the NA Pro League to the European ESEA Premier division in a decision made today. The organization requested the transfer from North America to Europe after acquiring a new Danish line-up, with ESL agreeing to the move in principle. OpTic will now have to re-qualify for the ESL Pro League in Europe by competing in the upcoming ESEA Premier season.
“With the acquisition of their Danish lineup, OpTic Gaming have requested the Pro League administration for a permanent transition from the North American Pro League to the European division, based on the fact their players want to live and compete in Europe going forward,” ESL said in its announcement. “This means that OpTic can no longer compete in the North American division due to residency rules, next to the obvious competitive disadvantages.”
OpTic did perform well in the last season of the NA Pro League, finishing third overall. However, with their acquisition of an all-Danish roster, the organization obviously feels it would be more beneficial to move back to the EU, presumably for residency reasons, regional comfort, and also to avoid having to play with high ping. The ESEA Premier season 29 is slated to begin sometime after the conclusion of season 28 later this month.
