Following a rapid return to competitive CS2, the iconic AWPer s1mple remains uncertain about his next steps, but one thing is clear: he is far from finished.
During a vlog from FaZe Clan after the Austin Major, the Ukrainian phenom discussed his brief time with the squad and shared his perspective on what lies ahead. In just a month’s time, s1mple played for FaZe in two major tournaments: IEM Dallas and the Austin Major, and he seemed to cherish every moment.
«I had a great time. From Dallas, even during the bootcamp with Filipo (skullz), I really enjoyed it,» s1mple remarked with enthusiasm. «I genuinely like all those guys. We had a lot of fun.»
The renowned CS:GO GOAT joined FaZe on a temporary basis from NAVI after stepping away from competitive play following a three-month loan with Team Falcons that concluded in December 2024.
At IEM Dallas, FaZe struggled significantly; with s1mple still acclimating to the team and skullz substituting for rain, they exited the group stage with only one win and two losses. Although s1mple was not in peak form, fans caught glimpses of his exceptional skill during those matches.
As they approached the Austin Major, the team began to gel, especially with the full roster, including rain, back together for bootcamp. By the time they reached Major Stage 2, s1mple’s resurgence was evident, showcasing his signature AWP flicks and clutch moments. Against The MongolZ in Stage 3, he delivered a stellar performance, achieving a 37-18 KD and a 1.47 rating in a dominant 2-0 victory, securing their spot in the playoffs.
However, in the quarterfinals, FaZe was unable to replicate their previous success against MongolZ, suffering a 0-2 defeat and finishing in a tie for 5th-8th place. Despite the enthusiastic support of the Austin fans, the strong teamwork and synergy of the MongolZ, built over multiple tournaments, proved too challenging for FaZe to overcome.
With the first Major of the CS2 2025 season concluded, so was s1mple’s tenure with FaZe. According to HLTV’s editor-in-chief, Striker, this arrangement is not evolving into a long-term contract. «I have definitely heard that s1mple will not be signing with FaZe,» he stated during a recent episode of the HLTV Confirmed podcast.
This means that the prominent North American organization will not be purchasing s1mple’s contract from NAVI, which still has a few months remaining following a three-year extension signed in late 2022. Currently, there are no signs that NAVI intends to reintegrate him into the main roster.
Despite the uncertainties, s1mple is keeping his cool. Whether with FaZe, NAVI, or another team altogether, he is determined to remain active in the competitive scene.
«We’ll see what happens. But I’m quite confident I will find a new team by the end of this year,» he declared. «Even if FaZe doesn’t choose to acquire me or if NAVI isn’t willing to let me go back, I will find a place because I want to keep playing.»
