The LoL esports scene was rocked this week when FlyQuest’s top laner, Bwipo (Gabriël Rau), was suspended following controversial remarks about women in competitive gaming. His comments on stream regarding female players and their “monthly cycle” sparked outrage across the gaming community and raised important discussions about inclusion in esports.
Bwipo’s Remarks Spark Backlash
During a Twitch stream on September 9, 2025, Bwipo suggested that women face disadvantages in LoL due to biological differences and that certain times of the month may prevent them from competing at their best. While he insisted that his statements were not meant to be sexist, the LoL community quickly labeled the incident “Bwipogate.”
Many fans, casters, and fellow professionals expressed disappointment. Eefje “Sjokz” Depoortere, a respected figure in the LoL scene, called the rhetoric “dangerous in the bigger context,” emphasizing how such ideas could discourage women from pursuing careers in esports.
As we reflect on this moment, it’s clear that the controversy extends far beyond Bwipo himself. It highlights the ongoing challenges women face in gaming and the broader need for supportive, inclusive environments.
FlyQuest Takes Swift Action
FlyQuest, Bwipo’s organization, responded quickly and decisively. In a public statement, the team confirmed that he would be suspended from the LTA playoffs and that his prize money from the event would be donated to organizations supporting women in gaming.
FlyQuest stressed its commitment to inclusivity, writing that discouraging even one young woman from chasing her dream in LoL undermines the future of esports. For FlyQuest, accountability and education are core values, and the organization made it clear that Bwipo’s comments did not align with their mission.
As we consider this response, it reflects how professional teams are becoming increasingly proactive in addressing behavior that could damage the industry’s reputation or discourage diversity.
Women in LoL and Esports
While Bwipo’s remarks were criticized as reductive, many female players and analysts took the opportunity to share their perspectives. EXN Raelyni, a Marvel Rivals and Overwatch player, debunked his claims by noting that she had tracked her win rates during different periods and found no correlation. She even added humor to the conversation by saying the only factor affecting her performance was whether she had eaten recently, “lol.”
Examples from across esports prove that women are more than capable of thriving at the highest levels. From Xiaomeng “Liooon” Li winning Hearthstone’s Grandmasters in 2019 to Christine “Potter” Chi coaching Evil Geniuses to a VALORANT World Championship in 2023, the evidence is undeniable. LoL itself has seen women rise in prominence through initiatives like Riot’s Game Changers circuit, designed to promote inclusivity and opportunity.
We should recognize that the real barriers are not biological but social and systemic, including harassment, lack of support, and unequal opportunities.
Bwipo’s Career at a Crossroads
Bwipo has been a familiar face in LoL esports since 2017, with notable stints on Fnatic and Team Liquid before joining FlyQuest. Known for his outspoken personality, he has often been a fan favorite for his bold playstyle and candid streams. However, this latest controversy could mark a turning point in his career.
Whether Bwipo can rebuild trust with fans and the broader community will depend on how he addresses the criticism and whether he takes accountability beyond FlyQuest’s disciplinary action. For now, his suspension leaves a shadow over what could have been an exciting playoff run for FlyQuest in the LTA.
Looking Ahead for LoL Esports
This incident comes at a critical time for LoL, with Riot Games pushing initiatives to broaden representation and make esports more welcoming. The Game Changers program, which aims to uplift women and marginalized genders, is about to kick off another season. The timing of Bwipo’s remarks only adds fuel to the conversation about how far the industry still needs to go.
As we move forward, the LoL community has an opportunity to turn this controversy into progress. By supporting inclusivity and celebrating the talent of women in esports, we can help shape a more equitable future for all players.
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