Darkmago receives five-year ESIC ban as Vintage is permanently banned

Darkmago receives five-year ESIC ban as Vintage is permanently banned

Former PlayTime mid laner Oswaldo " Darkmago " Herrera has received a five-year ban from competitive esports following an investigation by the Esports Integrity Commission, while former coach Juan "Vintage" Angulo has been permanently banned.

Darkmago 's suspension runs from July 14, 2026 through July 13, 2031.

According to ESIC's findings, Darkmago participated in discussions related to match-fixing and later became aware of messages indicating potential corrupt conduct.

However, the final sanction was primarily issued because he failed to report that information to ESIC.

No final finding of direct match manipulation

ESIC did not proceed with alternative allegations that Darkmago directly manipulated a match or received payment for doing so.

The five-year ban therefore centers on his failure to report information connected to suspected match-fixing rather than a proven finding that he personally organized or carried out the manipulation.

Vintage received a significantly harsher punishment.

ESIC found the former PlayTime coach guilty on all six charges brought against him.

The investigation determined that Vintage participated in an agreement or attempt to intentionally lose PlayTime 's match against Team Liquid , agreed to accept financial compensation connected to the alleged manipulation, and encouraged or assisted in involving another participant.

As a result, Vintage received a permanent ban from esports competition.

His sanction is also considered effective from July 14, 2026.

Case began at Esports World Cup 2026

The investigation dates back to the Esports World Cup 2026, where ESIC provisionally suspended Darkmago and Vintage over suspected integrity violations.

Those provisional suspensions prevented them from continuing with PlayTime at the tournament.

PlayTime later removed Darkmago and Vintage from its roster following an internal investigation.

The final ESIC ruling now confirms long-term sanctions for both individuals, with Darkmago barred for five years and Vintage banned permanently.