Global Esports just got hit hard in the middle of the 2025 VCT Pacific season. Preston “Juv3nile” Dornon, the team’s head coach, is now suspended for 12 months from all Riot-sanctioned tournaments. This ruling, effective April 4, comes after alleged breaches of Riot Games’ Esports Global Code of Conduct. Although details haven’t been fully disclosed yet, Riot has promised already that a full competitive ruling is on the way.
Image Credit: Global Esports IG
The American coach, signed before the 2025 season, was no doubt instrumental in Global Esports’ campaign. He once guided Leviatán to a title at the VCT Americas Stage 2 and guided them to a third-place finish at VALORANT Champions Seoul. His experience and fresh success made him a valuable addition to the roster of Global Esports, particularly with high-stakes international races like Toronto and Paris in the pipeline.
Rumors about Juv3nile’s situation started in March when he was unexpectedly pulled from a piece of VCT Pacific content. At around the same time, chatter in the community hinted at allegations of inappropriate direct messages. Though these stories are still just speculation, Riot’s investigation ended with a formal suspension. Along with the ban, Juv3nile now has to complete an executive training program that focuses on conduct, respect, and professionalism.
Reasons Why This Ban Matters Big in the VCT 2025 Race
Riot Games said that coaches and authority figures have to stick to higher standards because of their influence on teams and the community. The timing of this suspension is especially tough now.
With the VCT Pacific race heating up, every team is fighting for a spot at international events like Masters in Toronto and Champions in Paris. Losing a head coach mid-season can throw off team dynamics, practice routines, and in-game strategies—all crucial factors in these high-pressure tournaments.
The ruling expresses Riot’s commitment to maintaining professionalism and respect within the ecosystem. It also sets a clear example for others within the Riot competitive space. With the ruling still developing, it remains to be seen whether additional context or consequences will emerge, potentially impacting future team decisions and staffing policies across the VCT.
Impact on Global Esports Impact
For Global Esports, the suspension leaves a leadership void during one of the most pivotal stages of the season. The organization that signed a multi year deal with Infinite Reality partners just last year, had high hopes going into this season with Juv3nile at the helm, banking on his proven track record from his time with Leviatán. His absence now forces a sudden transition, with assistant coach Donnie “Elevated” Chell stepping up to lead the roster through the rest of the Pacific season.
The company has publicly endorsed Riot’s move and reiterated its internal dedication to ethical practice and professionalism. Global Esports is trying to assist the team through this transition phase, but the timing is against it. With other competing teams such as DRX, Gen.G, and Paper Rex having coaching continuity, Global will need to adjust fast in order to remain competitive.
This incident becomes a pivotal test of Global Esports’ resilience, structure, and ability to maintain focus amid uncertainty. As VCT Pacific moves forward, here’s everything else you need to keep up with.