Prominent Free Fire players Rafael “Patron” Mendes and Tetezitotv have departed Flamengo Esports, following the Brazilian club’s earlier decision to cease competing in shooter game titles.
The players announced their exits on Tuesday, October 22, 2025. Their departure marks a significant shift for Flamengo’s esports division, which had built a strong presence in the Free Fire competitive scene.
Flamengo, the traditional sports club, had informed its esports team in August that it would no longer participate in first-person shooter (FPS) or battle royale games, including Free Fire. Following this policy change, the esports team briefly operated under the name “Medellín Rubro-Negro” for these specific titles.
Patron, a key figure in the Free Fire community, posted on social media to confirm his departure from both Flamengo Esports and Medellín Games on October 20, 2025.
Today I say goodbye to @flaesports and @medellingames. It was not an easy decision; there were years of challenges, achievements, and learning. We made history in Free Fire and lived unique moments with the Nation. Some cycles need to end for others to begin. (Read + Below 👇)pic.twitter.com/261YkHKK9V
— Patron #GOFLA (@mdl_patron) October 20, 2025
During their tenure with Flamengo, Patron and Tetezito were integral to one of the most successful Free Fire Emulador rosters. The team secured 34 titles across various levels, in addition to one mobile victory.
While the players’ specific next steps remain unconfirmed, industry insider @Estagidosgames reported rumors of a potential move. The report suggests Patron may join an international organization. He would lead its esports operations in Brazil.
Exclusive! A foreign team would be arriving in Brazil with a project led by @mdl_patron, who will fully manage the organization’s esports in the country. Additionally, @tetezitotv would be joining. The team will compete in Free Fire Mobile and Emulador, as well as four other modalities. pic.twitter.com/ZxVHSnKQTQ
— FX ESTAGIARIO DOS GAMES (@Estagidosgames) October 21, 2025
The same insider report indicates Tetezitotv would also join this new venture. The new team is rumored to compete across Free Fire Mobile, Emulador, and four additional esports modalities.