by Fnatic has announced the departure of stand-in VALORANT player Emirhan “hiro” Kat after nearly four months with the team.
Hiro, who previously played for Papara SuperMassive, was brought on as a temporary replacement for Leo “Leo” Jannesson.
Leo had to step down due to health issues before the start of VALORANT Champions Tour EMEA Split 2.
Hiro was scouted independently of Fnatic’s affiliate partnership with Mandatory.
Bringing in Mandatory’s Damien “HyP” Souville would have meant removing the team’s in-game leader while they were competing for an Ascension slot, so FNATIC opted for Hiro, whose team faced a much tougher path to the promotional tournament.
Hiro played throughout Stage 2 and VALORANT Champions 2024 in Leo’s place, quickly becoming a key player in Fnatic’s success.
His performance contributed to Fnatic’s VCT EMEA title victory and their journey through VALORANT Champions.
Despite Hiro’s strong individual performance, Fnatic struggled in the world championship, ultimately finishing in the top six after being eliminated by G2 Esports.
With the season ending, Hiro’s time with Fnatic has come to a close, and he is now a free agent.
This departure leaves Fnatic with only three active players: Jake “Boaster” Howlett, Emir “Alfajer” Beder, and Timofey “Chronicle” Khromov.
Nikita “Derke” Sirmitev is currently a restricted free agent, and Leo’s return for the 2025 season remains uncertain, dependent on his health.
Fnatic’s official announcement on X included a heartfelt compilation of Hiro’s best moments with the team, capturing the sentiment of the organisation and its fans.
Hiro also expressed his gratitude towards Fnatic in a post.
Thanks to @FNATIC for everything, i will always apreciate the whole experience and the opportunity that was given to me. I'm proud to have been able to lift a trophy with this team and i really enjoyed my time with FNATIC ?? https://t.co/CAEgRerLsx
— FNATIC hiro (@hiroaims) September 3, 2024
With Hiro’s departure, it is clear that Fnatic is preparing for a significant roster overhaul.
With the recent announcement of Liquid’s trio—Elias “Jamppi” Olkkonen, James “Mistic” Orfila, and Enzo “Enzo” Mestari—also entering free agency, Fnatic has several options to consider as they rebuild their roster.
As the 2024 VALORANT offseason begins, more changes are expected, which could potentially reshape the competitive landscape.
