The United Kingdom began the process of leaving the European Union in the aftermath of a non-binding referendum in 2016, which saw "Leave" edge out "Remain" in a 52-48 margin. After invoking Article 50, negotiations were strenuous, with much controversy surrounding the choice between a "hard" or "soft" Brexit as well as how to resolve the Irish border without troubles. Nevertheless, three-and-a-half years and two Prime Ministers later, the UK officially left the EU on January 31, 2020.
This took place roughly a week after the commencement of ETF2L Season 35, gifting British players with a few more months of league inclusion. However, with the season coming to a close, the league has followed suit with their political compatriots in excluding Great Britain from European affairs.
ETF2L Head Admin DCS briefly spoke to the league's decision.
Ever since the Brexit referendum, we have noticed a growing aversion of our British player base against the leadership of our league, which consists largely of REAL Europeans. Now that the Brexit has in fact become a reality, we came together and decided to follow the political decision and exclude players of any British nationality from our competitions; I mean who are we to simply ignore the decisions of the most powerful Politicians of our continent?
Due to this new policy we are also hoping to attract new players to join our league as Brits are widely known to be rather toxic.
Since both Scotland and Northern Ireland were both strongly in favor to Remain, ETF2L is considering the option of granting their citizens league participation. Dependent on community feedback, Scots would be allowed to play as their own nation, while Northern Irish would be permitted to play under the Irish banner.
It is yet unknown whether the formation of a UK-specific league is underway.