Complexity exit Counter-Strike as roster moves to Passion UA

Complexity Gaming have officially withdrawn from Counter-Strike esports, marking the end of an era for one of North America’s oldest professional gaming organizations.

The announcement came directly from CEO and founder Jason Lake, who posted a video on X confirming the team’s departure from CS2 and outlining the financial realities that forced the decision.

“As you can imagine, it’s a tough day for us. We love Counter-Strike very much,” Lake said.

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“After a really strong ’23 and ’24, 2025 in the esports economy has been really challenging for us, and quite simply we have not been able to drive enough revenue to afford to properly support a tier-one team.”

Lake explained that the organization explored every possible avenue to secure investment and sponsorship but ultimately couldn’t find a sustainable way forward. He added that Complexity didn’t want to drag things out and risk harming players or staff, instead opting to make the decision now.

Lake also ruled out any immediate return to the title, noting that significant challenges would first need to be resolved.

Complexity’s Counter-Strike legacy dates back to 2004, with the team winning prestigious trophies such as ESWC 2005, CPL Summer 2006, and ESL Challenger Jönköping 2024.

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The organization has changed ownership several times in recent years, with Lake reacquiring it in 2024 for US$10.36 million. However, the downturn in sponsorship opportunities across North America left the brand unable to sustain their CS2 division.

Shortly after the announcement, Ukrainian organization Passion UA confirmed they had acquired the Complexity roster.

The move sees the lineup rejoin former head coach Tiaan “T.c” Coertzen, while Danny “Cxzi” Strzelczyk departs and is replaced by Ukrainian rifler Vladyslav “Kvem” Korol. Kvem arrives with a 1.18 rating in 2025, offering a firepower upgrade over Cxzi.

The roster now consists of Johnny “JT” Theodosiou, Michael “Grim” Wince, Håkon “hallzerk” Fjærli, Nick “nicx” Lee, and Kvem, with T.c coaching.

Passion UA’s acquisition also secures a near-certain path to the StarLadder Budapest Major through the Americas Valve Regional Standings.

The team’s busy schedule begins immediately, with appearances set at DraculaN #1, StarLadder StarSeries Fall 2025, and Fragadelphia Blocktober before heading to the Budapest Major in late November.