en
Repeated Pauses Spark Controversy During KC vs CFO at Worlds 2026
30 Oct, 2026, 02:50
|Last updated: 30 Oct, 2026, 02:50
The series between Karmine Corp (KC) and CTBC Flying Oyster (CFO) at Worlds 2026 was interrupted by multiple technical pauses during Game 2, including one lasting nearly 30 minutes, on Thursday, October 29. Players even left their stations while waiting for the League of Legends match to resume.
What Happened During the KC vs CFO Pauses?
About 25 minutes into Game 2 of the KC vs CFO series, CFO reported a possible equipment issue. Play was paused while the problem was investigated, with one stoppage lasting nearly 30 minutes.
That was not the only interruption. Chinese-language reports described five pauses during Game 2, with some accounts mentioning a possible bug that prevented players from purchasing items. The exact cause of the issues has not been officially confirmed.
Speaking to DPM.LOL, French ADC Caliste “Caliste” Henry-Hennebert said the repeated stoppages made the game mentally difficult, especially with KC behind in the bot lane.
“So mentally it was complicated, and above all pretty unusual. [...] the pauses felt like an eternity for us.”
KC top laner Kim “Canna” Chang-dong also addressed the delays in an interview with Inven Global. He acknowledged that the pause lasted longer than expected but explained that Riot had allowed players to discuss the game during the break. According to Canna, that helped the team regain focus when play resumed.
Fans Question Whether the Pauses Hurt CFO
The interruptions also drew criticism on social media. In replies to an official LoL Esports post about KC's victory, some fans questioned whether the long breaks had affected CFO's concentration after the Taiwanese team built a lead of more than 4,000 gold in Game 2.
One fan, @Yakutsenpai, suggested that the stoppages had disrupted CFO's momentum:
“It seems to me that these pauses completely disrupted the CFOs mindset and they completely lost focus, lost their momentum, and lost their chance at victory.”
Another user, @TeeOne2029, suggested that the reported bug had particularly affected CFO ADC Doggo:
“The bug tilt Doggo so bad, wtf was that really.”
Not everyone blamed the technical issues, however. @AricSki pointed to CFO's failure to capitalize on its lead:
“CFO really blew that and KC took advantage!”
Despite the complaints, there is no confirmation that the pauses directly influenced the result. The comments reflect fans' perceptions of how the stoppages may have affected the players' focus, rather than an established explanation for the defeat.
How Did the Match End After the Delays?
CFO had built a lead of roughly 4,500 gold in Game 2. Even after play resumed, the team secured Dragon Soul but could not hold off Karmine Corp's comeback.
KC rallied in the following teamfights, secured Baron Nashor and completed the turnaround after a fight around Elder Dragon, closing out the series 2-0.
The defeat eliminated CFO from Worlds 2026 with a 1-3 record. KC improved to 2-2 and will compete in the final Swiss Stage round for a place in the quarterfinals. For more results from October 29, check out Strafe's recap of the day, which also covers Top Esports' qualification for the playoffs.
Follow Strafe's full Worlds 2026 coverage for the match schedule, results, participating teams, and more from the League of Legends World Championship.
Follow Strafe Esports for the latest League of Legends news, and check out our X account for more updates and coverage. You can also visit the Strafe YouTube channel for exclusive interviews, press conferences, and more.
Featured image credit: Riot Games
Read more:
Top Esports Stun BLG to Reach Worlds 2026 Playoffs as KC Stay Alive
