Shopify Rebellion has officially stepped away from the Dota 2 competitive scene, releasing its entire roster just over a month before The International 2025. The announcement was made on July 30 via the team’s social channels, accompanied by a heartfelt message from SR Co-founder and Program Development Lead Dario “TLO” Wünsch reflecting on their journey and decision to withdraw.
In the statement posted on X, TLO looked back on the team’s entrance into Dota 2 in 2022, describing it as “a monumental leap” during the early days of the organization. “Dota, with its rich history and passionate community, played a vital role in pushing us into the mainstream,” he said.
For the team’s leadership, the game held personal significance, with a nod to fond memories of the original Dota on Warcraft 3 and their experience attending The International 12 in 2023.
Despite their best efforts, TLO acknowledged that their results ultimately didn’t live up to the standards they had set. “The heartbreak you felt, cheering us on, I can assure you was mirrored by what we felt. We found ourselves in so many promising positions, countless times on the cusp of a deep tournament run, only to have our hopes slip through our fingers.”
The team’s time in the Dota 2 scene included highlights like finishing second at DreamLeague Season 19 and consistent regional dominance in North America. Still, a deeper run at international events proved elusive. TLO nonetheless praised the “dedication, the sheer grind, the heart poured into this by our players, our coaches, and every single member of our support staff,” affirming that the lack of results was never due to a lack of commitment.
The entire roster is being released “unconditionally,” effective immediately, to allow players to explore new opportunities ahead of TI14. While TLO didn’t disclose future plans in Dota 2, the tone of his message left the door open for a possible return: “I am confident this is a ‘see you soon’ rather than a goodbye.”
The statement also included personal thanks to the team’s long-time manager, Rob, and a special mention for head coach Bulba, calling him someone who truly embodies the passion of the game.
With the Dota 2 landscape heading into a crucial phase leading up to The International, Shopify Rebellion’s exit marks the end of an era for one of NA’s most visible organizations. For now, fans will be watching to see where the former players and staff land next, and whether Rebellion finds its way back to the game that helped shape its early esports identity.
Published: Jul 30, 2025 09:28 pm