FunPlus Phoenix Bolsters Valorant Roster with KovaQ
Shanghai, China – FunPlus Phoenix (FPX) has announced the signing of Blendi “KovaQ” Kovaci, a Swiss/Albanian Valorant player, to its roster. The move comes after a disappointing performance in the VCT China Kickoff event, where FPX finished last in their group.
While FPX has not officially confirmed KovaQ’s role, it is widely expected that he will replace Nutchapon “sScary” Matarat due to the single import rule in VCT China. VLR.gg first reported the signing.
KovaQ’s Background
KovaQ most recently competed with CGN Esports in the VALORANT Challengers League DACH, where he achieved a 1.26 rating and a 1.37 K:D ratio in Stage 1 playoffs. Prior to CGN, he had a brief stint with Team Vitality during VCT EMEA Stage 2 in 2025, playing multiple agents across all four roles.
FPX’s 2026 Season So Far
FPX entered the 2026 season with high expectations after acquiring sScary and Ou “Setrod” Taigeng, and achieving success in the offseason with a win at the China Evolution Series: Epilogue and a third-place finish at the Radiant International Invitational. However, the team struggled in the China Kickoff, going 0-3.
Current FPX Roster
- Zhang “BerLIN” Bolin
- Qu “Life” Donghao
- Zhang “AAAAY” Yang
- Blendi “KovaQ” Kovaci
- Nutchapon “sScary” Matarat
- Ou “Setrod” Taigeng
- Guan “9hr” Haoran (Manager)
- Nikola “LEGIJA” Ninić (Head Coach)
- Yao “York” Kun (Assistant Coach)
- Zhang “PHO” Shicheng (Staff)
FPX will look to rebound in Stage 1 and return to international competition, having last participated in Champions 2024. Bo3.gg reports that KovaQ has joined the team on loan and will compete in the upcoming China Evolution regional event.
Sheep Esports confirmed that KovaQ’s visa request was approved a few days prior to the announcement.