Counter-Strike legend Oleksandr ‘s1mple’ Kostyliev is returning to competitive play with FaZe Clan after going on hiatus since November last year. On loan from former team Natus Vincere, s1mple will replace Helvijs ‘broky’ Saukants for BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 and Intel Extreme Masters Dallas 2025.
UK Counter-Strike community react in excitement
In reaction to the news, some took to social media with giddy excitement to see the Counter-Strike legend compete at a Major once again.
On the topic of performance, his previous appearances with Team Falcons have been lacklustre for the level of talent he’s known for. Having not reached beyond 7th place during the entirety of last year, s1mple’s performance has been brought into question, with 2024 possibly being the twilight of his career. However, this year brings a new opportunity for s1mple, as put best by Counter-Strike on-air talent, James Banks.
Meanwhile, others took inspiration from his namesake and put it plain and s1mple.
s1mple will make his debut with the team at IEM Dallas 2025, set to take place in a few weeks on the 19th of May, with much anticipation from the entire Counter-Strike community.
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