Cloud9 Parts with Vanity and Runi After Disappointing Season
After another disappointing year in the VCT, Cloud9 has decided to part ways with Anthony “Vanity” Malaspina and Dylan “Runi” Cade.
Cloud9’s 2024 Season
Cloud9’s 2024 season began with the signing of ex-G2 Esports' core : Immi (coach), Wippie, and Oxy, along with re-acquiring their previous IGL, Vanity, who had been dropped after a poor start to VCT 2023.
Although the roster looked strong on paper, they struggled to perform at VCT 2024: Americas Kickoff. Cloud9 management made quick changes, bringing back Runi and signing Moose to replace Jakee and Wippie, respectively.
The revamped roster won their Week 1 game of the VCT 2024 Americas League against Leviatán. They finished Split 1 with a 5-1 record but lost in the knockout round of the playoffs, failing to qualify for another international tournament.
In Split 2, a key victory over NRG helped them secure playoff qualification once again, but they lost in the opening game for the second time, missing out on yet another international appearance. This meant Cloud9 has not qualified for an international event since VALORANT Champions 2021.
Cloud9 Drops Vanity and Runi Again
Earlier today, Cloud9 announced the departures of Vanity and Runi. This marks the second time Vanity has been dropped from the roster. He has had three separate stints with the team, with his most successful one coinciding with the organization’s best results in VALORANT, explaining why he was called back twice.
Runi, who also played for Cloud9 in 2023 and had a strong regular season as their IGL was called back in 2024. He greatly contributed to the team's wins in 2024, but it wasn't enough. Following the announcement of his departure, Runi took to X/Twitter to announce his retirement from VALORANT esports.
Can Cloud9 Bounce Back?
Cloud9's current roster features Xeppa, Oxy, and Moose—players who were crucial to their limited success. It will be interesting to see who they bring in to round-out the roster. The biggest challenge will be finding a new IGL, and hopefully, they won’t turn to Vanity once again.
Follow Cloud9 on X/Twitter for latest updates on the VALORANT roster. You can also follow all the latest VALORANT news on Strafe.
Featured Image Credits: Cloud9
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