UK organisation Lightning Pandas have ceased operations, effective as of April 18th 2019.
In a Twitlonger statement, the org (owned by influencer marketing agency Kairos Media) stated that due to “the impending cost of franchising and other internal factors” the decision was made to cease operations.
Mr Stark, I don’t feel so good…
Read: https://t.co/aXCf3sSUBx
— Lightning Pandas (@LightningPandas) April 18, 2019
Since relaunching in 2017, the Lightning Pandas have achieved significant placements in FIFA, Call of Duty and Fortnite respectively.
Call of Duty was their main area of success. At CWL Birmingham, their roster consisting of all North American players finished in the top eight and a few months later, the team went on to finish in the top 12 st the season ending world championships.
Fortnite would be their next target of success. At the Fall Skirmish, their US player Alex “yoyokeepitup” Rickert walked away with $30,000 after benefiting from a last-minute rule change.
Their most recent line of success was with upcoming FIFA talent Reece “Rusher” Rusher. After some impressive FIFA Ultimate Team Champions performances, Rusher represented his beloved Southampton FC in the inaugural ePremier League where he finished in the top 8 teams in attendance.
“Following our re-launch in 2017, the past year and a half has been an incredible journey,” the Lightning Pandas said in a Twitlonger. “Despite the odds, with the support from you, our loyal Pandamonium, we have achieved some unbelievable milestones.
“However, having narrowly missed out on the Call of Duty Pro League, the impending cost of franchising and other internal factors, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the Lightning Pandas has officially ceased operations.”
With their tie-dye team jerseys synonymous with esports, it is a shame to see a growing UK org cease operations. Everyone at Esports News UK wishes the best to all Lightning Pandas staff affected.
Thank you for all the memories. ? pic.twitter.com/bWGV6bRY0N
— Lightning Pandas (@LightningPandas) April 18, 2019
