Team Vitality announced the signing of French Tekken player Neia on Thursday, adding one of the scene’s youngest rising competitors to its fighting games division for the next two seasons.

Neia, 16, joins the organization following a breakout year in 2025 that included strong showings at several international events in Tekken 8. The move places her alongside established professionals on Team Vitality’s roster as she begins the next phase of her competitive career.

The signing also reflects a broader generational shift within the fighting game community, with younger players entering top-tier competition earlier than in previous eras. Neia’s arrival further highlights ongoing efforts across the scene to increase visibility and opportunities for women competing at the highest level.

Neia first gained widespread attention after being spotted by French champion and content creator Kayane during a training session held at Team Vitality’s Paris headquarters in June 2025. Her performances there led to increased interest from the French competitive community.

Later that year, Neia placed 17th at EVO Nice, finishing ahead of several established international players in a field of more than 2,500 competitors. She also recorded a 13th-place finish at Ultimate Fighting Arena in Paris and placed fourth at Galaxian Explosion in December.

A young player steps onto a global stage

With Team Vitality, Neia joins a lineup that includes Korean Tekken specialist Jeondding and North American competitor KingReyJr. The organization said the signing aligns with its long-term focus on developing emerging talent across multiple fighting game titles.

Neia is best known for her use of the character Lili, favoring an aggressive, movement-heavy style that has drawn attention from commentators and fans alike. While still early in her career, her recent results have positioned her as one of France’s most closely watched Tekken prospects.

Her upcoming competitive schedule includes appearances on the Tekken World Tour circuit in Sweden in January, followed by EVO Japan in May.

Team Vitality said Neia will compete under the organization’s banner beginning this season.