Team BDS has faced significant backlash following controversial comments by CEO Patrice Bailo de Spoelberch on Twitter (now X). Within a day, one of the year’s major Rocket League events, Take the Throne, was cancelled, and BDS announced “internal measures” would be taken against him.
As a top French esports organization, BDS is renowned for its teams in Rainbow Six Siege, League of Legends, and its history of success in Rocket League. Including World Championship wins in 2022 and 2024. Despite leaving Rocket League earlier this year due to sustainability issues, the organization had promised to stay connected to the scene by hosting Take the Throne.
However, this plan unraveled after the CEO’s now-deleted tweet stated: “A woman who dares to use abortion should lose the right to ever have children.” The remark prompted several participating teams, including Team Vitality, Karmine Corp, and Gentlemates, to withdraw in protest. Vitality released a statement condemning the comments and emphasizing their commitment to values that align with respect and equality. Other teams also began issuing refunds to ticket holders.
BDS responded by distancing themselves from the CEO’s views. Reaffirming that the statement did not reflect the organization’s ideals and confirming internal actions against de Spoelberch. The CEO issued an apology, stating his tweet was “clumsy” and written impulsively, clarifying his support for women’s rights to make decisions about their bodies. Despite this, fans have widely criticized him, with many calling for his resignation.
The incident has left fans and the esports community questioning the future of BDS’s leadership and its role in competitive Rocket League.