Mazino confirms new IGL role on MIBR and explains the decision

Despite not making any actual roster moves, MIBR has made an important change in its VALORANT lineup all the same: Roberto "Mazino" Rivas took over the role of in-game leader (IGL), which previously belonged to Andrew "Verno" Maust.

In an exclusive interview with THESPIKE Brazil, the Chilean player explained that the move didn't happen during the EWC - Esports World Cup 2026, but rather a week before the start of playoffs at the VALORANT Champions Tour 2026 - Americas Stage 1. During the interview, Mazino explained how the decision was made, and declared he now aims to be the best he can be in his new role.

A Collective Decision

First and foremost, Mazino left no room for doubt: the decision to make him MIBR's new IGL was made as a team, as it seemed like the most natural course of action after a disappointing start to the year.

"[Becoming MIBR's IGL] was something all of us decided was necessary for the team, and it mostly fell to me because I'm already a player who talks a lot about game things and plans, so the coaches decided that was the 'normal' answer."

After assuming his new role, it was immediately time to get to work. A great in-game leader never stops trying to be better, and that's exactly what the Chilean player aims to do, both for himself as well as his teammates.

"I always had the idea of being IGL. At first it was very unexpected, in terms of timing, and of course I had doubts, but I decided to accept the challenge and I feel like the whole team has helped me a lot to develop. That has helped me a lot to feel good and confident in the role. I'm going to do everything to be a better IGL and a better leader so my teammates can be the best version of themselves."

A new order

At the Esports World Cup, Mazino and Verno swapped the order in which they sat on stage. The decision, according to Mazino, was made in part to make the players more comfortable. Outside of that, though, the team also felt that it was time to 'announce' the role change to the world.

"We wanted to keep the positions, but before the last games, Verno and I thought that if we swapped places, we would feel more comfortable, and it was time to show that I was the IGL."

With Mazino as IGL, MIBR finished in 5th-6th place in Stage 1 of the VCT Americas 2026, and more recently placed 5th-8th at EWC 2026 after being eliminated in the quarterfinals. The Brazilian team's next match will be their VALORANT Champions Tour 2026 - Americas Stage 2 debut against reigning World Champs NRG, set to take place this Saturday, July 18.

For all things VCT-related, make sure to stay tuned to THESPIKE.GG as we continue to update you with the freshest game and esports news.

Featured Image Source: Esports World Cup