Warhammer World Championships Hit by Boycott Over US Venue

Top Players Decline “Golden Tickets” in Protest

The Warhammer World Championships are facing a wave of controversy as several prominent players announce their boycott of the event, citing concerns over its location in the United States. The decision, driven by political and ethical objections, has sparked widespread discussion within the Warhammer community.

The core of the issue stems from the players’ disapproval of the current US political climate, with specific criticisms directed towards policies they perceive as harmful to marginalized groups. 1 Quentin Dubus, a respected Age of Sigmar player from Belgium, publicly declared his refusal to attend, despite earning a coveted “Golden Ticket” to the tournament.

Some of the best Warhammer players in the world are boycotting a championship in the U.S. over our embrace of fascism. One Belgian player cited specifically legal actions against trans people as one reason he will not participate.Nice to see.

— Robert Evans (the Only Robert Evans) (@iwriteok.bsky.social) 2025-05-08T03:21:27.024Z

In a statement shared across social media, Dubus described the World Championships as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” highlighting the significance of the event for connecting with the global Warhammer community. However, he emphasized that his decision was rooted in “political and ethical” considerations, labeling it “an act of activism.”

Dubus directly referenced Games Workshop’s 2020 statement, “Warhammer is for everyone,” arguing that hosting the championships in a country with policies he deems discriminatory sends a contradictory message. He expressed concern that the location undermines the company’s commitment to inclusivity.

His stance has resonated with other top players. Konstantinos Kellis, who qualified for the Age of Sigmar Worlds in Sweden, also announced his boycott, citing “the exact same reasons.” In an interview, Kellis acknowledged the honor of receiving a Golden Ticket but ultimately concluded that he could not reconcile attending with his personal beliefs.

Adding to the growing list of boycotting players, Australian Kill Team player Emma Hallinan, a trans woman, also declined her invitation. Hallinan, a top player in the Southern Hemisphere, stated that traveling to the US posed a safety risk for her. “I couldn’t accept that ticket because travelling to the US would be dangerous for me,” she explained.

Hallinan’s decision underscores the personal impact of the controversy, highlighting the real-world implications of political decisions on individuals within the Warhammer community.

The boycott has ignited a debate within the Warhammer world, raising questions about the intersection of gaming, politics, and ethical responsibility. Games Workshop now faces the challenge of addressing the players’ concerns and navigating the complex dynamics of hosting international events in a politically charged environment. The players have made their feelings known, and the company will need to respond.