Canezerra joins Sentinels for 2027 season after Riot Games lifts hardware ban

In 2025, Alex "canezerra" Banyasz received a hardware ban from Riot Games for disruptive and toxic behavior during his streams. With the original 12-month ban cut short, Sentinels have now announced his signing for the VCT 2027 season.

What happened to canezerra?

Canezerra caught attention early in his professional career. Although he only began establishing himself in Tier 2 in 2023, it didn't take long for ENVY to recognize his potential and bring him onto the roster. Alongside a group of talented players, he helped ENVY climb through the Tier 2 circuit and secure the VALORANT Champions Tour 2025 - Ascension Americas title.

However, just as he earned his promotion and the opportunity to prove himself in Tier 1, canezerra received a 12-month ban that put his competitive career on hold. The punishment came after a review of the player's behavior across Riot titles revealed multiple violations of the company's Terms of Service.

ENVY clarified that the ban was unrelated to cheating, stressing that the ToS violations were the main reason behind Riot's decision. Shortly after the ban was issued, ENVY terminated their contract with the player.

Seven months later, with several months still remaining on his original suspension, Sentinels announced canezerra as their new addition for the 2027 season.

Riot Games has not commented on the decision to lift the ban before the full 12-month suspension period had elapsed.

Canezerra joins Sentinels

Seven months after receiving the ban, canezerra addressed the situation once again, reflecting on his personal growth and the lessons he learned during this period. In a post on X, the player spoke about his ban and claimed to have changed.

"I can only apologise for past actions and being ignorant on certain topics, this year I've become an adult and had to deal with realities in life that made me realise I needed to mature. My actions going forward will show you that. Thanks to those that have helped me and been willing to give me a second chance. I won't take it for granted."

Canezerra will finally make his Tier 1 debut with Sentinels, who were recently selected as one of the partner teams for the Americas region. As one of the region's partner teams, Sentinels have already secured their spot in the VCT Americas 2027 Kickoff, bypassing the Open Qualifiers.

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Featured Image by Riot Games