Up to this moment, the League of Legends World Championship 2025 have presented challenges for supporters of the LEC.
As the region’s third-ranked team, Fnatic entered the competition bearing the burden of long-standing, unrealized goals. The team hasn’t progressed to the playoffs at Worlds since 2020, rendering this a critical evaluation of their ability to recover their previous international standing.
Fnatic commenced its Worlds 2025 journey with a defeat against CTBC Flying Oyster, a team that later achieved victory over T1. In Fnatic’s subsequent match, they encountered the LPL’s top-seeded team, Bilibili Gaming, but couldn’t secure a win. Currently at 0–2, Fnatic is scheduled to face Movistar KOI, with the losing team facing elimination from Worlds 2025.
In a discussion with Esports Insider following the team’s setback against BLG, Fnatic’s jungler, Iván ‘Razork‘ Martín Díaz, expressed his views on the team’s existing difficulties and the necessary adjustments for Fnatic to make a comeback.
Razork: In my view, we’re not performing optimally as a team. I don’t believe we’re at the required standard in this competition thus far.
ESI: What specific improvements do you think this team needs to implement?
Razork: Well, I believe there’s a multitude of areas we need to work on immediately. I’m uncertain if it’s a deficiency in self-assurance or… I’m really not sure.
I simply don’t think we’re approaching the game correctly during official matches, and I also don’t believe we’re making the most of our practice during scrimmages. So, yes, I’m just unsure how to alter the situation at this time. I just have the feeling that our performance isn’t up to par.
ESI: Are there particular activities or individuals you might consult when encountering such feelings? To positively influence your mindset and those of your teammates?
Razork: I don’t believe the issue is on an individual level. Rather, I perceive a lack of harmony within the team, leading to frequent errors.
Our actions lack a unified strategy. Therefore, it’s not about seeking counsel on individual concerns. We need to consciously strive for change, although I’m uncertain about the direction we should pursue. However, it’s evident that modifications are necessary if we aspire to progress in this competition, especially given our current challenging circumstances. Therefore, action is imperative.
ESI: Regarding your personal performance, what specific improvements are you aiming for? I understand you can’t speak for your teammates, as a collective reassessment is necessary. However, at this moment, is there anything specific you’re considering practicing for Saturday’s match?
Razork: Yes, indeed, there are aspects I intend to refine. While I won’t disclose them now to avoid revealing strategies, I generally feel I must enhance my self-assurance and confidence to perform at my peak. I recognize that when these elements are in place, I become a highly effective player.
ESI: In our previous discussion, you asserted yourself as the foremost AP jungler globally, yet we haven’t witnessed you in that role. Is this due to the BO1 format restricting draft flexibility?
Razork: Indeed, I also believe the current meta has its priorities, making it challenging to impose drafts when the opposing team drafts effectively. Executing AP jungles in those circumstances isn’t really feasible.
ESI: I have an additional inquiry regarding the match, specifically about Shad0w. He previously competed in the LEC, and I believe our last encounter in the LEC was in the summer of 2020. You were with Misfits, and he represented Mad Lions. Do you recall any details from those LEC matches against him, and what’s your perspective on the improvements both of you have made over the years?
Razork: In truth, I didn’t know much about him before his move to BLG. While I was aware of his transition to the LPL, I didn’t closely follow his progress. Since joining BLG, I’ve observed him playing effectively and positively influencing his team. Regrettably, my recollections of our matches during my time with Misfits are vague. However, it’s evident that he has significantly developed as a player.
ESI: All teams have been practicing Fearless Draft throughout the year, though this Worlds 2025 feature hasn’t been used during these BO1 matches, for clear reasons. Do you think Fearless Draft enhances the quality of the matches?
Razork: Definitely. I can’t imagine how we managed without Fearless Draft before. It feels uninspired to play the same three champions in the role.
I believe Fearless adds excitement for both viewers and players, enabling them to explore more options. So, I anticipate that implementing Fearless will significantly improve Worlds going forward.
Razork: I made many sacrifices to become a pro player. Leaving home at 17 means leaving friends and family behind. So, there are many sacrifices to pursue your dreams and do what you love. I’d say those are the main ones.
ESI: Has there ever been a moment in your career, since leaving home, when you felt the sacrifices were worthwhile?
Razork: Yes, I think so all the time. I feel that I left my house, I left my friends and my family, but ultimately, I’m doing what I enjoy and love, which is working as a pro player for Fnatic. So, I have no regrets.
ESI: As you move forward in the competition, do you anticipate any regrets, or do you believe you can turn the tables on your current situation?
Razork: I’m uncertain. Right now, we’re not in a comfortable position. I believe the entire team is striving to make it work, but we need to try harder or push harder. I don’t know, but I don’t anticipate any regrets as I’m doing my best.
The post Fnatic Razork at Worlds 2025: “I just think we are not playing well as a team” appeared first on Esports Insider.
