Sentinels Sign canezerra After Riot Lifts His Hardware Ban Early

Sentinels have signed Alex “canezerra” Banyasz for the 2027 VALORANT season, the organization announced on Friday, November 6. The 18-year-old American won Ascension Americas 2025 with ENVY but spent much of 2026 sidelined by a 12-month Riot Games hardware ban that was lifted early.

canezerra is the latest addition to Sentinels' roster rebuild, following the recent signings of OXY and brawk. The organization introduced him in a social media video highlighting his Ascension title.

Who Is canezerra and Where Did He Play Before Sentinels?

canezerra began making a name for himself in North American VALORANT with RANKERS, which he joined in 2024. In March 2025, the roster was signed by ENVY as the organization returned to competitive VALORANT after nearly four years away.

His biggest result came in October 2025, when ENVY won Ascension Americas in São Paulo. The team defeated TSM 3-1 in the grand final to secure a spot in VCT Americas 2026.

Despite winning the title and earning promotion, canezerra never made his VCT Americas debut with ENVY. He had not yet turned 18, the minimum age for VCT Americas competition, and remained out of the starting lineup while waiting to become eligible.

Why Was canezerra Banned by Riot Games?

On April 16, 2026, Riot Games issued canezerra a 12-month hardware ban after identifying multiple Terms of Service violations related to his conduct. The punishment barred him from playing, competing, streaming or taking part in promotional activities involving Riot Games titles.

ENVY made clear that the ban was not related to cheating and terminated his contract immediately. The player later issued a public apology, acknowledging that he had acted immaturely, particularly in ranked matches.

The ban was initially set to expire in April 2027. However, it was lifted in late October 2026, allowing canezerra to return to competition. Sheep Esports also reported on Friday that he had reached a verbal agreement with Sentinels, a move now confirmed by the organization's announcement.

What Does Sentinels' 2027 Roster Look Like?

canezerra is Sentinels' third announced signing of the offseason. On November 2, the organization unveiled Francis “OXY” Hoang, formerly of Cloud9. The following day, it confirmed Brock “brawk” Somerhalder, who won Champions 2025 with NRG and was named the tournament's MVP.

canezerra made his name as a duelist during his time with ENVY, the same role OXY has played. Sentinels have yet to explain how they plan to divide roles within the new lineup.

Alongside the new signings, Mohamed Amine “johnqt” Ouarid remains the team's in-game leader, while Yassin “Reduxx” Aboulalazm is still under contract with the organization. Sentinels have not yet clarified their starting five following canezerra's arrival.

Another potential change involves Brazilian player Gabriel “cortezia” Cortez. According to reports from Sheep Esports and THESPIKE Brasil, he has reportedly reached an agreement with LOUD, although the move has not been officially announced. His potential departure would open up a roster spot, but Sentinels have yet to specify what role canezerra will fill.

Why Are Sentinels Rebuilding Their Roster?

Sentinels finished 2026 without qualifying for any of the three major international events on the VCT calendar. The team placed 9th-10th at both VCT Americas Kickoff and Stage 1 before exiting Stage 2 in the Play-Ins with a 2-0 loss to KRÜ Esports.

Following the season, Sentinels confirmed the departures of Gurjiwan “Jerrwin” Gill and Jonah “JonahP” Pulice. The organization remains one of the VCT Americas partner teams for 2027 and 2028 and is looking to return to international competition with its rebuilt lineup.

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Featured Image Credit: Riot Games

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