ESIC Unban Ex-Heroic Coach HUNDEN

Former Heroic coach Nicolai "HUNDEN" Petersen has been unbanned by The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC). This latest action allows him to return to participate in ESIC member events with immediate effect.

According to a 29 November 2022 press release, ESIC's decision followed "constructive engagement" between the two parties and was "conducted in good faith and in a collaborative spirit." ESIC further noted that "while the parties were in disagreement on certain matters, both parties recognized the importance of integrity to the thriving Esports industry."

Unfortunately, the particulars of the discussion were not publicized; however, ESIC noted that HUNDEN "has agreed to undertake relevant training." Moreover, ESIC confirmed that it will "review its policies and procedures to ensure they are consistent with good industry practice and fit for purpose."

ESIC concluded its statement by saying that "the parties will make no further comment on the matter."

In August 2021, ESIC penalized HUNDEN with a two-year suspension following his complicity in the now-infamous Counter-Strike: Global Offensive spectator bug abuse scandal, which ESIC deemed a threat to the "reputation and competitive integrity of esports." In particular, the Danish coach breached the ESIC code of conduct by sharing sensitive "anti-strat" information with a competitor ahead of the Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) Cologne esports event that year.

• Related: ESIC Bans 37 Coaches From CS:GO In Landmark Investigation

In a Twitter post earlier today, on 2 December 2022, HUNDEN said, "I'm grateful for my legal team at Howard Kennedy LLP and 33 Chancery Lane for guiding me through what has been a very difficult period" before thanking team members John Carl Townsend, Rachel Clark, Joel Leigh, Kyle Philips, Kamila Kwincinska and Josh Page.

At this time, it is unclear what HUNDEN's next move will be; however, there is some speculation that HUNDEN is in talks to join Astralis, potentially as their new Head Coach (thanks, Dexerto).

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